4 


LIFE  STORIES  FOR  YOUNG  PEOPLE 


ACHILLES 


LIFE  STORIES  FOR 

YOUNG  PEOPLE 

Translated  from  the  German  by 

GEORGE  P 

UPTON 

44  Volumes  Now  Ready 

American  Explorers 

Prince  Eugene 

Eug£nie,  Empress  of  the 
French 

Columbus 

Francisco  Pizarro 

Queen  Maria  Sophia  of 

Cortes 

Naples 

Eric  the  Red  and  Leif 

Emin  Pasha 

the  Lucky,  and  Other 

General  (“Chinese”) 

Pre-Columbian 

Gordon 

Discoverers  of  America 

David  Livingstone 

Historical  and  Biographical 

Stanley’s  Journey 

THROUGH  THE  DARK 

Washington 

Continent 

Franklin 

Penn 

Musical  Biography 

Maximilian 

Beethoven 

Barbarossa 

Mozart 

William  of  Orange 

Johann  Sebastian  Bach 

Maria  Theresa 

The  Maid  of  Orleans 

Joseph  Haydn 

Frederick  the  Great 

The  Little  Dauphin 

Legendary 

Herman  and  Thusnelda 

Frithjof  Saga 

The  Swiss  Heroes 

Gudrun 

Marie  Antoinette’s 

The  Nibelungs 

Youth 

William  Tell 

The  Duke  of  Brittany 

Arnold  of  Winkei.ried 

Louise,  Queen  of  Prussia 

Undine 

The  Youth  of  the  Great 

Ulysses  of  Ithaca 

Elector 

Achilles 

Emperor  William  First 

Gods  and  Heroes 

Elizabeth,  Empress  of 

The  Argonautic  Ex- 

Austria 

PEDITION  AND  THE 

Charlemagne 

Labors  of  Hercules 

Illustrated.  Each  50  cents  net 

A.  C.  McCLURG 

&  CO.,  Chicago 

EATH  OF  HECTOR 


life  Stories  for  Young  People 


ACHILLES 

Translated  and  abridged  from  the  German  of 
Carl  Friedrich  Becker 

* 

BY 

GEORGE  P.  UPTON 

Translator  of  “Memories”  “Immensee,”  etc. 


WITH  THREE  ILLUSTRATIONS 


CHICAGO 

A.  C.  McCLURG  &  CO. 

1912 

HOSTO*  COM/KCifC  MAKAR* 
CHJtbTMUT  HILL,  MAvS8. 


pfl 

Copyright 

A.  C.  McClurg  &  Co. 
1912 


Published  September,  1912 


THE. PLIMPTON  ‘PRESS 
[  W  •  D  •  O  ] 

NORWOOD*MASS*B*S‘A 


Cranslator’s  preface 


IN  tracing  the  career  of  Achilles  in  connection 
with  the  Trojan  war,  that  inimitable  classic 
story-teller,  Carl  Friedrich  Becker,  follows  the 
lines  of  Homer’s  Iliad.  He  gives  the  reader  a  graphic 
picture  of  the  stirring  events  in  the  ten  years’  siege 
maintained  by  the  Greeks,  under  the  leadership  of 
Agamemnon,  king  of  Mycenae,  in  their  finally  suc¬ 
cessful  effort  to  redress  the  injury  done  to  Menelaus, 
king  of  Sparta,  whose  wife,  Helen,  was  carried  off 
by  Paris.  The  striking  points  in  this  thrilling  narra¬ 
tive  are  the  quarrel  between  Agamemnon  and 
Achilles;  the  exploits  of  Hector,  noblest  character 
of  them  all;  the  human  impersonations  of  the  gods, 
who  take  part  in  the  strife  —  some  on  one  side,  some 
on  the  other;  the  death  of  Patroclus;  the  final 
reconciliation  of  Achilles  and  Agamemnon  and  the 
former’s  tremendous  exploits;  the  death  of  Hector, 
and  the  touching  interview  with  the  aged  Priam, 
who  seeks  to  recover  his  body. 

The  ultimate  fate  of  Achilles  and  the  fall  of  the 
city  are  not  told,  nor  the  wretched  end  of  Agamem¬ 
non,  who,  according  to  Aeschylus,  was  killed  by 
Clytemnestra,  the  queen,  upon  his  return.  Hector 
is  one  of  the  most  conspicuou$,  figures  in  this  great 

X  3 1  o  §  [  v  ] 


TRANSLATOR’S  PREFACE 


drama  and  appears  only  second  to  Achilles  among 
all  the  warriors.  The  exciting  Trojan  war  story  has 
never  been  told  more  graphically  or  interestingly  in 
modern  prose  than  in  Becker’s  version.  In  adapt¬ 
ing  it  to  the  series  of  “Life  Stories”  the  translator 
has  been  obliged  to  abridge  the  original  work  some¬ 
what,  but  the  parts  omitted  do  not  interfere  with 
the  flow  of  the  story. 

G.  P.  U. 

Chicago,  May ,  1912. 


[vi] 


Contents 


Chapter  Page 

I  The  Greeks  March  Against  Troy  — 

Agamemnon  Quarrels  with  Achilles  .  n 

II  Thetis  Promises  to  Aid  the  Angry 
Achilles  and  Begs  Jupiter’s  Assist¬ 
ance  —  Juno  is  Angry  —  Agamemnon 
and  the  Other  Princes  Summon  the 
Greeks  to  Battle . 21 

III  Meeting  of  the  Armies  —  Menelaus  and 

Paris  —  Agamemnon  Leads  the  Greeks 
into  Battle . 28 

IV  Continuation  of  the  Battle  —  The  Gods 

Take  Part . 38 

V  The  Greeks  are  Successful  —  Hector 
Hastens  to  the  City — Glaucus  and 
Diomedes,  Hector  and  Andromache  46 

VI  Hector  and  Ajax  in  Single  Combat  —  A 

Truce  —  Another  Battle  at  the  Ships  53 

VII  Agamemnon  Advises  Flight  —  Council 
of  the  Princes  —  A  Deputation  is  Sent 
to  Achilles . 63 


CONTENTS 


Chapter  Page 

VIII  Agamemnon  in  Battle  —  Many  of  the 

Greeks  are  Wounded- . 71 

IX  Agamemnon  Consoled  —  The  Gods  Take 
Part  in  the  Strife  and  the  Trojans 


are  Driven  Back . 82 

X  Jupiter’s  Message  to  Poseidon  —  The 

Battle  for  the  Ships . 90 

XI  Patroclus  Hastens  into  Battle  and 
Scatters  the  Trojans  —  Hector  and 
Patroclus . 97 


XII  The  Fight  for  Patroclus’  Body  — 
Achilles  Mourns  His  Fallen  Friend  — 
Thetis  and  Vulcan  —  The  Shield  of 
Achilles . 104 

XIII  Achilles  and  Agamemnon  Become  Recon¬ 

ciled —  Achilles  Goes  into  Battle  .  115 

XIV  Achilles  in  Battle  —  His  Fight  on  the 

River  Scamander . 120 

XV  Hector  and  Achilles  —  Hector’s  Death  .  13 1 

XVI  Priam  and  Achilles  —  Hector’s  Burial 

in  Troy . 139 


[viii] 


3llu£trattong 


Death  of  Hector  . 

Rescue  of  Paris  by  Aphrodite  . 
Thetis  Consoling  Achilles  . 


.  Frontispiece 

.  •  •  34 

no 


[ix] 


&cfrille0 

Chapter  I 

The  Greeks  March  against  Troy  —  Agamemnon 
Quarrels  with  Achilles 


TROY  was  a  small  portion  of  that  section  of 
Asia  Minor  which  was  later  called  Phrygia. 
Its  northern  coast  touched  the  entrance 
to  the  Hellespont.  It  was  very  densely  populated 
and  had,  besides  many  little  plantations,  villages, 
and  settlements  of  farmers  or  herdsmen,  a  large  city 
with  a  strong  wall,  towers,  and  gates.  Homer  never 
called  the  city  Troy,  but  always  Ilios  or  Ilium. 
The  surroundings  he  calls  Troy  and  the  inhabitants 
Trojans,  after  an  ancestor  named  Tros,  who  was 
said  to  have  founded  the  city.  He  describes  them 
as  a  bold,  enterprising  people,  who  lived  in  a  high 
degree  of  comfort  and  practised  many  arts  of  which 
the  Europeans  of  that  time  were  ignorant. 

The  Achaians,  as  Homer  calls  the  inhabitants  of 
Greece,  and  the  Trojans,  engaged  in  mutual  depreda¬ 
tions  upon  each  other’s  property,  —  until  at  last 
the  long-standing  national  hatred  broke  out  violently 

[II] 


ACHILLES 


through  the  fault  of  the  Trojans.  Alexandras,  or 
Paris,  one  of  the  sons  of  the  old  Trojan  king,  Priam, 
sailed  across  to  Europe  and  paid  a  visit  to  King 
Menelaus,  ruler  over  several  cities  in  Sparta.  He 
was  hospitably  received  and  entertained  for  many 
days,  but  repaid  his  good  hpst  with  most  shameless 
ingratitude.  He  persuaded  the  queen,  the  beautiful 
Helen,  to  forget  her  duty  and  flee  with  him.  Mene¬ 
laus  sought  revenge  and  called  upon  his  brother 
Agamemnon,  ruler  over  Mycenae,  old  Nestor  of 
Pylos,  Ulysses  of  Ithaca,  and  many  other  valiant 
princes  to  ally  themselves  with  him.  A  number  of 
young  lords  who  had  long  been  wishing  to  take  part 
in  some  glorious  enterprise,  like  the  expedition  of 
the  Argonauts,  of  which  their  fathers  had  so  much 
to  tell,  offered  their  services  with  innumerable 
followers. 

News  of  the  mighty  campaign  which  was  being 
arranged  spread  throughout  Greece,  causing  great 
rejoicing.  Everyone  looked  upon  it  as  a  great 
opportunity  and  an  event  in  which  it  would  be 
shameful  not  to  take  part.  A  whole  year  passed  in 
preparing  the  equipments.  In  the  meanwhile  Nestor 
and  Ulysses  travelled  about  everywhere  to  per¬ 
suade  the  princes  of  Greece  and  its  neighboring 
islands,  who  had  hesitated  hitherto,  not  to  miss  their 
share  in  the  honors  and  spoils  which  so  brilliant  a 
campaign  was  sure  to  afford.  For  the  object  was 
nothing  less  than  the  destruction  of  the  celebrated 
city  of  Troy,  and  the  booty  which  was  to  be  ex¬ 
pected  from  such  a  rich  people  was  incalculable. 

[  12] 


GREEKS  MARCH  AGAINST  TROY 


They  had  excellent  success  on  this  recruiting  expedi¬ 
tion,  calling  upon  Peleus,  father  of  Achilles  in 
Thessalia,  King  Idomeneus  in  Crete,  old  Telamon 
in  Salamis,  and  others. 

The  harbor  of  Aulis  in  Boeotia  was  selected  for 
the  place  of  meeting  and  at  the  appointed  time  more 
than  one  thousand  ships  assembled,  with  men  from 
all  parts  of  Greece.  They  agreed  to  offer  the  com¬ 
mand  to  Agamemnon,  one  of  the  foremost  among 
the  princes,  partly  because  he  had  brought  the 
largest  following  and  partly  because  he  and  his 
brother  had  organized  the  campaign.  He  was, 
besides,  a  clever  and  honorable  man  and  a  brave 
warrior,  although  considerably  inferior  in  physical 
strength  to  Achilles,  the  invincible. 

All  was  ready  for  departure,  but  the  ships  waited 
in  vain  for  a  favorable  wind.  It  was  supposed  that 
some  god  was  delaying  the  voyage  and  that  he  must 
be  propitiated  by  an  offering,  so  the  priest  Calchas 
was  commanded  to  consult  the  oracle.  After  ob¬ 
serving  the  usual  signs  he  announced  that  Agamem¬ 
non  had  slain  a  sacred  animal  in  the  chase,  thereby 
offending  Artemis,  who  now  demanded  a  human 
sacrifice  in  the  shape  of  Agamemnon’s  eldest  daugh¬ 
ter,  Iphigenia.  She  was  accordingly  brought  to  the 
altar,  but  Artemis  relented  at  the  moment  when  the 
fatal  stroke  was  about  to  be  given,  removed  the  trem¬ 
bling  maiden  in  a  dense  cloud,  and  put  an  animal  in 
her  place.  When  Iphigenia  awoke  from  her  swoon, 
she  found  herself  in  the  temple  of  Artemis  in  Taurus, 
where  she  served  for  a  long  time  as  priestess. 

[13] 


ACHILLES 


The  same  day,  after  this  sacrifice,  a  favorable 
wind  swelled  the  sails  and  the  impatient  heroes 
boarded  their  ships.  In  a  few  days  the  fleet  arrived 
at  Troy.  On  the  way  they  had  stopped  to  plunder 
a  few  cities  on  the  islands  of  Scyros  and  Lesbos, 
had  killed  the  men,  and  taken  the  women  on  board 
as  slaves.  After  landing  they  proceeded  in  the  same 
manner  in  the  country  about  Troy.  At  the  end  of 
the  war  the  godlike  Achilles  boasted  that  he  alone 
with  his  Myrmidons  had  conquered  twelve  rich 
cities  by  sea  and  eleven  by  land  in  the  Trojan  terri¬ 
tory.  The  booty  which  each  skirmishing  party 
brought  in  to  camp  was  divided  and  the  chief  always 
received  the  best  of  everything.  The  inhabitants 
of  the  capital  were  safe  behind  their  walls,  and  as 
the  Greek  forces  were  seldom  united,  the  Trojans 
were  often  able,  by  a  sudden  sortie,  to  repulse  the 
attacking  parties  which  ventured  too  near  the  gates. 
This  desultory  warfare  continued  for  several  years, 
until  many  of  the  Achaians  began  to  long  for  home. 
But  they  were  ashamed  to  depart  thus,  without 
having  accomplished  their  object.  The  leaders  con¬ 
centrated  their  men  and  began  the  siege  in  earnest. 

The  Trojans  now  took  measures  for  more  careful 
defence  and  sent  to  the  neighboring  peoples  to 
demand  their  aid.  Many  princes  responded  to  the 
call  with  their  followers,  until  they  had  formed  an 
alliance  equal  in  strength  to  the  Achaians.  In  the 
tenth  year  of  the  siege  fortune  seemed  to  have 
turned  her  back  on  the  Greeks,  for  besides  the  hard¬ 
ships  of  war,  they  had  to  contend  with  a  pestilence, 

[14]  *  * 


GREEKS  MARCH  AGAINST  TROY 


and  finally  were  nearly  destroyed  by  the  Trojans, 
while  their  two  mightiest  chiefs,  Agamemnon  and 
Achilles,  were  quarrelling. 

Agamemnon  had  plundered  a  city  and  had  taken 
Chryseis,  daughter  of  a  priest  of  Apollo,  for  his 
slave.  In  the  same  way  Achilles  had  become 
possessed  of  a  maid  named  Briseis,  to  whom  he 
became  so  attached  that  he  wished  to  keep  her 
always  with  him.  After  a  time  the  priest  appeared 
in  the  Greek  camp  with  rich  presents  to  ransom  his 
daughter,  but  Agamemnon  did  not  wish  to  give  up 
the  maiden  and  returned  a  harsh  answer.  The 
Greeks  urged  him  to  release  the  maid  out  of  respect 
for  the  priest  and  for  fear  of  Apollo’s  wrath,  but  the 
obstinate  man  refused  to  listen  to  reason  and  bade 
the  father  depart  on  pain  of  chastisement.  With 
loud  lamentations  the  old  man  retired  to  the  sea- 
coast  and  prayed  to  Apollo.  The  legend  tells  us 
that  Apollo  at  once  left  Olympus,  seated  himself 
at  some  distance  from  the  ships,  and  began  to  shoot 
his  arrows  into  the  Greek  camp.  Whatever  was 
struck  died  a  sudden  death  by  the  plague.  First 
the  donkeys  and  dogs  and  then  the  men  fell  victims. 
The  pestilence  raged  for  nine  days,  during  which  the 
funeral  pyres  burned  incessantly. 

This  filled  the  leaders  with  great  apprehension, 
so  that  on  the  tenth  day  Achilles  summoned  a  folk 
assemMy-^nd  advised  the  people  to  call  upon  the 
seer  Calcha/  to  discover  what  fault  of  the  army  had 
brougtit“*Tms  woe  upon  them  and  by  means  of  what 
sacrifice  the  god  might  be  appeased.  Calchas 


ACHILLES 


hesitated,  but  at  length  answered  that  he  knew  the 
reason,  but  feared  to  give  it  until  the  bravest  among 
the  heroes  had  sworn  to  protect  him  in  case  a  man 
of  great  power  among  the  Achaians  should  be  angry 
at  his  decree.  Then  Achilles  stood  up  and  made  a 
public  vow  to  protect  him,  even  though  the  man  he 
meant  were  Agamemnon,  mightiest  of  the  Greeks. 
“Very  well,  then,”  replied  Calchas,  “I  will  declare 
the  truth.  Yes,  it  is  Agamemnon  with  whom  Apollo 
is  angry,  for  he  has  dishonored  his  priest  and  has 
refused  to  restore  his  daughter  to  him.  Therefore 
hath  he  sent  this  punishment  upon  us  and  we  cannot 
escape  it  until  the  maiden  shall  be  returned  freely 
to  her  father  and  a  rich  sacrifice  has  been  offered 
to  the  god  upon  his  holy  altar.” 

Agamemnon,  trembling  with  rage,  cried:  “Miser¬ 
able  seer,  must  I  do  penance  for  the  people’s  sins? 
The  maiden  is  wise  and  well  trained  in  feminine 
tasks.  I  prize  her  above  my  spouse,  Clytemnestra, 
and  must  I  give  her  up?  Let  it  be  so;  take  her!  I 
will  bear  even  more  than  this  for  the  people’s  good. 
But  I  tell  you,  ye  must  provide  another  gift  in  her 
place,  for  she  was  my  share  of  the  booty.” 

“Avaricious,  insatiable  man,”  answered  Achilles, 
“what  dost  thou  demand?  I  knew  not  that  we  had 
treasures  in  reserve.  Therefore  be  patient  until 
the  gods  aid  us  to  conquer  rich  Troy.  Then  thou 
mayst  replace  thy  treasure  many  times  over.” 

Although  this  speech  was  just,  the  angry  man 
imagined  that  it  was  intended  in  mockery  and  he 
cried:  “Not  so,  Achilles;  strong  and  brave  as  thou 

[  16  ] 


GREEKS  MARCH  AGAINST  TROY 


art,  thou  shalt  not  intimidate  me!  Dost  thou  ex¬ 
pect  to  keep  thy  spoils  and  the  others  theirs,  while 
mine  is  taken  from  me?  I  tell  thee,  if  I  receive  no 
compensation,  I  will  myself  take  it  from  thy  tent 
or  those  of  Ulysses  or  of  Ajax,  or  wherever  I  please, 
and  let  him  whom  I  despoil  avenge  himself.  Take 
now  the  maiden,  put  her  aboard  the  ship,  together 
with  the  sacrificial  steer,  and  row  her  to  Chryse, 
where  her  father  lives,  that  the  god  may  no  longer  be 
angry  with  us.” 

This  speech  infuriated  Achilles  and  he  cried 
angrily:  “What!  Thou  wouldst  take  away  my 
prize?  Did  we  march  against  the  Trojans  for  our 
own  sakes?  Not  I,  indeed!  They  never  injured 
me,  nor  ever  robbed  me  of  a  horse  or  cow,  nor  pillaged 
my  newly  sown  fields.  I  was  well  protected  by 
wooded  hills  and  the  broad  sea  and  never  thought 
of  Troy  in  my  Phthian  home.  It  was  solely  on  thy 
account,  thou  selfish,  shameless  man,  that  I  came 
hither  to  avenge  thine  and  thy  brother’s  sullied 
honor.  And  this  hast  thou  so  speedily  forgotten  and 
threatenest  even  to  take  away  the  spoils  which  the 
Achaians  have  unanimously  accorded  me  and  which 
I  have  honestly  earned?  Have  I  not  hitherto  borne 
the  chief  burden  of  the  war?  Who  has  fought  as 
much  as  I?  Let  him  appear!  And  when  have  I 
received  prizes  like  thine?  Thou  hast  always  taken 
the  best  of  everything,  while  I  have  contented  my¬ 
self  with  little.  Very  well!  Thou  mayest  fight 
alone!  I  return  to  Phthia!” 

“Fly,  if  thy  heart  bids  thee!”  flashed  forth  Aga- 

[17] 


ACHILLES 


memnon  in  anger.  “Truly  I  shall  not  beg  thee  to 
remain.  There  are  other  warriors  here  through 
whom  Jupiter  will  help  me  to  achieve  honor.  Thou 
hast  been  obnoxious  to  me  from  the  beginning. 
Thou  hast  ever  loved  quarrelling  and  strife  and  hast 
never  kept  peace.  Thy  strength  hath  been  given 
thee  by  the  gods  and  thou  dost  pride  thyself  alto¬ 
gether  too  much  upon  it.  Thou  mayest  sail  away  with 
all  thy  followers  and  rule  peacefully  over  thy  Myrmi¬ 
dons.  Thy  wrath  is  nothing  to  me.  But  I  tell  thee, 
that  as  Phoebus  Apollo  has  taken  Chryses’  daughter 
from  me,  I  shall  take  from  thee  the  rosy  daughter  of 
Briseus,  thy  prize,  so  that  thou  mayest  learn  how  much 
more  powerful  I  am  than  thou,  and  that  no  other  in 
future  shall  dare  to  defy  me  as  thou  hast  done.” 

In  a  rage  Achilles  drew  his  shining  sword  from  its 
scabbard  to  cut  down  Agamemnon.  Suddenly, 
unseen  by  all  the  rest,  the  goddess  Athena  stood 
behind  him  and  whispered  to  him  not  to  draw  his 
sword  against  the  king,  but  that  he  might  scold  as 
much  as  he  pleased.  “Thy  word  I  must  obey,  oh 
goddess,”  answered  Achilles,  “though  anger  fills  my 
heart.  The  gods  attend  those  who  follow  their 
counsel.”  With  these  words  he  returned  his  sword 
to  its  scabbard,  but  turning  to  Agamemnon  he  cried: 
“Thou  miserable  drunkard,  with  the  look  of  a  dog 
and  the  courage  of  a  hare!  Never  hast  thou  dared  to 
risk  a  decisive  battle  or  to  lie  in  ambush  with  the 
other  nobles;  but  it  is  more  comfortable  to  take 
away  his  prize  from  the  single  man  who  opposes 
thee.  I  swear  that  thou  shalt  never  again  see  me 

[  18  ] 


GREEKS  MARCH  AGAINST  TROY 


raise  my  arm  against  the  Trojans,  though  all  thy 
Achaians  should  perish  and  thou  shouldst  beseech 
me  on  thy  knees  to  save  thee.” 

Thus  he  spake,  and  dashing  his  sceptre  upon  the 
ground,  sat  down  in  silence.  Agamemnon  was  pre¬ 
paring  to  answer  this  passionate  speech  when  up 
rose  old  Nestor,  reverenced  like  a  father  by  every¬ 
one  for  his  age,  wisdom,  and  experience.  When  it 
was  seen  that  he  wished  to  speak  all  were  quiet. 
Even  Agamemnon  bridled  his  anger,  and  the  well- 
meaning  old  man  began:  “Dear  friends,  what  are 
you  about!  What  an  unhappy  fate  do  ye  bring 
upon  us  all!  How  Priam,  his  sons,  and  the  whole 
Trojan  people  will  rejoice  when  they  hear  that  the 
foremost  Achaians  are  quarrelling.  Listen  to  me, 
for  ye  are  all  much  younger  than  I.  However  much 
power  the  Achaians  have  given  thee,  Agamemnon, 
do  not  abuse  it.  Let  Achilles  keep  the  prize  with 
which  the  Achaians  have  rewarded  him.  And  thou, 
Achilles,  do  not  defy  the  king,  for  never  has  Jupiter 
crowned  a  king  with  such  honor  as  this  one.  Though 
thou  art  stronger  than  he  and  boastest  thyself  of 
divine  ancestry,  he  is  the  more  powerful  and  all  the 
people  obey  him.” 

“Truly,  honorable  father,”  answered  Agamemnon, 
“thou  hast  spoken  worthily.  But  this  man  is  un¬ 
reasonable;  he  wishes  to  be  above  all  others,  to  rule 
all,  to  make  laws  for  all.” 

Achilles  interrupted  him.  “Indeed  I  should  be 
a  coward  did  I  submit  to  all  thy  insults.  I  will  keep 
the  vow  I  have  sworn.  One  thing  I  will  say  —  if 

[19] 


ACHILLES 


the  Achaians  wish  the  maiden  they  have  given  me, 
they  may  have  her.  But  woe  to  thee  if  thou  layest 
hands  upon  my  other  spoils.” 

Agamemnon  insisted  on  taking  the  maiden,  and 
he  had  the  power  to  carry  out  his  threats.  Wisdom 
counselled  Achilles  to  surrender  what  he  was  not 
strong  enough  to  hold.  He  withdrew  from  the 
quarrel  with  more  dignity  than  his  unjust  enemy, 
and  his  threat  of  abandoning  the  war  gave  him 
ample  satisfaction.  The  result  proved  his  value. 
He  had  thus  far  been  the  only  one  able  to  vanquish 
Hector,  Priam’s  most  valiant  son;  and  now  that  he 
had  withdrawn,  it  was  the  Trojans,  day  after  day, 
who  were  the  victors.  It  seemed  as  though  a  god 
had  doomed  the  Greeks  to  destruction. 

Agamemnon  first  sent  Ulysses  to  conduct  his 
slave  and  the  appointed  animals  for  the  sacrifice 
to  her  father’s  home.  Next  he  called  upon  two 
heralds  to  fetch  the  beautiful  Briseis  from  Achilles’ 
tent.  They  obeyed  his  command  in  fear  and  trem¬ 
bling.  But  Achilles  banished  their  fears,  saying: 
“Come  hither,  ye  sacred  messengers  and  peace  be 
with  ye.  For  ye  are  not  to  blame,  but  he  who  sends 
ye.  He  shall  have  the  maid.  Go,  Patroclus,  and 
fetch  her  out.  Ye  are  all  witnesses  before  gods  and 
men  that  I  have  sworn  never  to  lift  a  hand  again 
for  Agamemnon  against  Troy.” 

They  received  the  maid  from  the  hands  of  his 
friend,  Patroclus,  and  she  went  reluctantly  away 
with  them,  often  glancing  sorrowfully  backward 
toward  the  tent  of  her  former  beloved  master. 

(20]  | 


Chapter  II 

Thetis  Promises  to  Aid  the  Angry  Achilles  and 
Begs  Jupiter's  Assistance  —  Juno  is  Angry  — 
Agamemnon  and  the  Other  Princes 
Summon  the  Greeks  to  Battle 


A  CHILLES  gazed  gloomily  after  the  men,  then 
/  \  arose  quickly  and  seated  himself  far  from  his 
I  jL.  companions  on  the  beach,  looking  moodily 
out  over  the  dark  waters.  He  bethought  him  of  his 
mother,  Thetis,  who  lived  in  the  blue  depths  of  the  sea, 
spread  out  his  arms,  and  prayed  to  her  for  aid.  She 
heard  him  and  hastened  to  appear.  Floating  over 
the  sea  like  a  cloud,  she  seated  herself  beside  her 
weeping  son  and  tenderly  caressed  him.  “Dear 
son,  why  dost  thou  weep?”  she  asked.  “What 
troubles  thee?  Speak!  Conceal  nothing  from  me.” 
With  deep  sighs  he  related  what  had  happened  to 
him,  begging  his  mother  to  avenge  his  wrongs  and 
to  intercede  for  him  with  Jupiter. 

It  was  early  on  the  twelfth  day  since  Achilles  had 
retired  from  the  fray  when  Thetis  rose  from  the 
dark  waves  and  ascended  the  heights  of  Olympus. 
She  found  the  mighty  Jupiter  seated  on  the  summit 
of  the  mountain,  apart  from  the  other  gods,  bowed 
herself  before  him,  embraced  his  knees  with  her  left 

[21  ] 


ACHILLES 


hand,  and  caressed  his  chin  with  her  right  hand. 
“Father  Jupiter,”  she  said  coaxingly,  “if  thou  lovest 
me,  grant  me  a  boon  and  show  favor  to  my  son,  who 
has  but  a  short  life  to  live.  Give  him  redress  against 
Agamemnon  and  let  the  Trojans  prevail,  until  the 
Achaians  shall  be  obliged  to  recompense  him  with 
redoubled  honors,  for  this  base  insult.” 

The  father  of  the  gods  and  men  began  dejectedly: 
“Thou  wilt  involve  me  in  strife  and  enmity  with 
Juno.  Even  now  she  quarrels  with  me  and  says  I 
am  aiding  the  Trojans.  Leave  me  quickly,  that  she 
may  not  see  thee,  and  I  will  grant  thy  request  with 
a  nod.” 

The  goddess  descended  from  the  shining  heights 
of  Olympus  into  the  depths  of  the  sea,  while  Jupiter 
arose  and  went  to  his  palace.  When  the  gods  saw 
him  coming  they  all  left  their  places  and  went 
respectfully  to  meet  him.  He  approached  the  throne 
and  seated  himself.  But  his  jealous  consort  had 
noticed  Thetis  and  began  straightway  to  pick  a 
quarrel  with  him.  “Yes,  I  saw  the  silver-footed 
Thetis  at  thy  knee,  saw  thy  nod,  and  saw  her  depart 
content.  Doubtless  thou  art  about  to  honor  Achilles 
once  more,  castigate  the  Achaians,  and  protect  the 
insolent  Trojans.” 

“Thou  art  continually  spying  upon  me,”  answered 
the  ruler.  “  But  it  shall  do  thee  no  good  —  I  do  as  I 
please.  Therefore  sit  still  and  be  silent,  for  shouldst 
thou  arouse  my  anger,  all  the  immortals  together 
could  not  save  thee  from  my  powerful  hands.” 

Thus  spake  the  Thunderer,  and  Juno  was  fright- 

[22] 


THETIS  PROMISES  AID 


ened.  All  the  gods  were  sorry  for  her,  especially 
Hephaestus,  the  artist  god  of  fire;  for  she  was  his 
mother,  and  he  had  already  learned  that  Jove’s 
threats  often  received  terrible  fulfilment.  He  began 
in  his  mother’s  behalf:  “It  is  intolerable  that  thou 
shouldst  quarrel  over  mortals.  I  admonish  thee, 
mother,  to  bear  thyself  acceptably,  that  our  father 
may  be  content  and  our  feast  be  undisturbed.” 
He  took  his  goblet,  and  handing  it  to  his  mother, 
said:  “Be  patient,  dear  mother,  even  though  grieved 
at  heart,  that  I  may  not  have  to  look  upon  thy 
punishment.  Once  before  when  he  struck  thee  and 
I  attempted  to  restrain  him,  he  took  me  by  the  heel 
and  cast  me  down  into  the  air,  so  that  I  fell  for  a 
whole  day  before  I  struck  the  earth,  and  I  have 
limped  ever  since.” 

The  mother  smiled  and  took  the  cup,  and  He¬ 
phaestus  filled  the  goblets  of  the  other  gods.  Then 
Apollo  with  his  muses  broke  forth  in  sweet  song, 
and  thus  the  day  passed  among  the  immortals  in 
blissful  contentment.  When  Helios  had  put  out 
his  flaming  torch,  each  went  to  his  dwelling  to  rest. 
Jove  was  the  only  one  whom  sleep  fled.  He  medi¬ 
tated  anxiously  how  he  might  favor  Achilles  by 
defeating  the  Greeks.  He  sent  a  deceptive  dream 
to  Agamemnon,  telling  him  to  prepare  for  battle 
and  that  it  would  be  easy  for  him  to  conquer  the 
city.  As  soon  as  he  awoke,  Agamemnon  told  the 
other  princes  of  his  dream.  The  assembly  was 
called  together.  Agamemnon  was  uncertain  whether 
he  dared  call  upon  the  discontented  army,  and 

[23] 


ACHILLES 


wishing  first  to  feel  his  way,  he  began  to  talk  of  their 
return.  “Here  we  have  lain  for  ten  years,”  he  said. 
“The  ships  are  rotting,  the  anchor  ropes  are  moulder¬ 
ing,  and  we  have  as  yet  accomplished  nothing. 
Indeed  the  gods  seem  to  be  against  us.  Therefore 
my  advice  is  that  we  quickly  put  to  sea  and  sail  for 
home  before  the  Trojans  do  us  a  greater  mischief. 
You  all  must  see  that  we  cannot  take  the  city.” 

He  had  scarcely  ended  when  the  whole  company 
rushed  exultantly  away  to  the  ships,  for  all  were 
anxious  to  return  to  their  homes.  This  was  more 
than  the  king  had  expected  and  he  looked  on  in 
despair,  while  the  other  brave  leaders  gnashed  their 
teeth.  They  were  powerless  to  stay  the  tumultuous 
rabble  until  Ulysses,  hurrying  forward  with  quick 
presence  of  mind,  admonished  leaders  and  men  to 
return  to  the  assembly.  “Do  not  be  in  such  a 
hurry,”  he  would  say  when  he  met  one  of  the  princes; 
“hear  the  end.  Thou  dost  not  know  the  king’s 
mind  yet.  He  but  wished  to  test  us,  and  woe  to 
thee  if  the  mighty  king’s  wrath  overtake  thee.” 
Then  he  drove  the  people  back,  and  they  came  with 
a  roar  like  angry  waves  breaking  on  a  rocky  shore. 
They  knew  Ulysses’  warlike  spirit  and  feared  he 
might  advise  renewal  of  the  struggle.  Only  respect 
for  his  great  authority  moved  them  to  return. 

When  all  the  princes  were  seated  and  order  had 
once  more  been  restored,  Ulysses  was  about  to  take 
up  the  sceptre.  Suddenly  Thersites  pushed  for¬ 
ward.  He  was  despised  by  the  whole  army  as  a 
quarrelsome,  insolent  fellow,  who  seldom  let  an 

[24] 


THETIS  PROMISES  AID 


opportunity  go  by  to  insult  the  princes,  not  excepting 
Agamemnon  himself,  with  mocking,  rebellious  words. 
He  was  the  ugliest  of  all  the  Greeks,  having  a  lame 
foot,  a  deformed  shoulder,  a  pointed,  bald  head, 
and  a  cast  in  one  eye. 

“What  wilt  thou  now,  Atreus’  son?”  he  shrieked 
at  Agamemnon.  “I  should  have  thought  thou 
hadst  collected  enough  money  and  valuable  spoils 
to  have  satisfied  thy  avarice.  Dost  thou  desire 
still  more?  Must  the  Achaians  still  sacrifice  them¬ 
selves  to  fill  thy  insatiable  throat?  Are  ye  not 
ashamed,  ye  princes,  to  suffer  such  a  king  to  lead  ye 
to  destruction?  But  ye  are  women  or  ye  would 
desert  him  and  embark  without  him. 

“Silence,  foolish  babbler!”  cried  Ulysses.  “If  I 
ever  again  hear  thee  slander  one  of  us  so  shame¬ 
lessly,  true  as  I  live,  I  will  tear  thy  clothes  from  thy 
body  and  whip  thee  out  of  the  assembly  so  that  the 
whole  camp  shall  hear  thy  cries!”  Thus  spake  the 
hero,  beating  him  about  the  back  and  shoulders 
with  the  sceptre,  so  that  he  cowered  down  and  then 
ran  away  crying  out. 

The  heralds  now  commanded  silence  as  Ulysses 
again  stood  up  to  speak.  Turning  to  Agamemnon 
he  said:  “Oh  son  of  Atreus,  how  badly  have  the 
Achakns  kept  faith  with  thee.  They  promised  not 
to  return  home  until  we  had  conquered  Troy,  and 
now  they  act  like  children.  I  do  not  blame  anyone 
for  longing  for  his  home  after  ten  years  of  absence. 
But  just  because  we  have  waited  so  long,  it  were  a 
shame  to  return  when  we  are  so  near  the  goal.  For 

[25] 


ACHILLES 


we  must  succeed  or  all  the  signs  of  the  immortal 
Jove  are  a  mockery.  Did  not  Calchas  tell  us,  back 
in  Aulis,  how  it  would  be?  Do  ye  not  remember  the 
sparrow’s  nest  in  the  beautiful  maple  tree  near  our 
altar?  I  can  still  see  the  spotted  serpent  gliding  up 
its  trunk  and  swallowing  the  eight  young  birds  and 
catching  the  frightened  mother  bird  at  last  by  the 
wing.  We  were  all  alarmed  at  the  omen,  but 
Calchas  interpreted  the  occurrence  favorably.  He 
said:  ‘The  war  shall  consume  nine  years,  but  in  the 
tenth,  Troy  shall  fall.’  Behold,  friends,  the  proph¬ 
ecy  is  about  to  be  fulfilled,  and  will  ye  now  flee? 
Wait  but  a  short  time  until  we  have  taken  the  proud 
city  of  Priam,  and  then  let  us  depart  laden  with  rich 
booty  and  crowned  with  immortal  glory.” 

Old  Nestor  next  arose  to  persuade  those  who  still 
hesitated.  “That  is  right,”  he  said.  “Let  reason 
speak  to  you.  Shall  our  great  plans  go  up  in  smoke 
and  shall  our  sacred  vows  to  Menelaus  and  his  good 
brother,  Agamemnon,  be  broken?  Indeed  no!  Lead 
the  Achaians  into  battle,  great  king,  and  most  of 
them  will,  I  hope,  cheerfully  follow  thee.  Let  the 
men  be  gathered  together  by  tribes,  that  each  may 
fight  for  his  own  blood.  Then  thou  shalt  clearly 
see  whether  the  gods  protect  the  city  or  whether  it 
is  the  cowardice  and  ignorance  of  our  army  which 
defeats  us.” 

“Well  spoken!”  cried  Agamemnon.  “We  must 
not  rest  until  the  fortress  is  taken.  Jove  will  surely 
aid  us.  His  flashing  lightnings  as  we  left  Aulis  are 
the  surest  pledge  of  this.  The  city  would  already 
[26] 


THETIS  PROMISES  AID 


be  ours  had  I  ten  men  in  my  army  as  wise  as  thou 
art,  0  Nestor,  and  alas!  had  Achilles  not  left  us  — 
Achilles,  whom  I  have  wounded  so  sorely.  But 
come!  Let  everyone  prepare  for  the  battle.  Let 
us  quickly  refresh  and  strengthen  ourselves  and  then 
advance  upon  the  city  in  a  body.” 

With  these  words  he  dismissed  the  assembly  and 
the  people  streamed  back  to  the  tents  to  arm  them¬ 
selves  and  take  some  food.  The  king  invited  all 
the  chiefs  to  join  him  at  breakfast  in  his  tent.  Nes¬ 
tor,  Idomeneus,  The  two  brave  Ajaxes,  Diomedes, 
and  Ulysses  were  there,  besides  his  brother  Menelaus. 
They  took  a  steer,  strewing  sacred  barley  upon  it, 
and  while  they  all  stood  about  it  in  a  circle,  Agamem¬ 
non  lifted  up  his  voice  and  prayed  to  Jupiter  for 
victory.  Alas!  he  did  not  know  that  the  god  had 
turned  against  him. 

The  drivers  harnessed  their  horses,  the  warriors 
donned  helmet  and  shield  and  took  up  their  lances, 
and  the  heralds  lifted  up  their  mighty  voices  above 
the  din,  to  call  the  stragglers  together.  Company 
after  company,  they  assembled  like  a  swarm  of 
migrating  birds.  Then  the  princes  hastily  mustered 
the  ranks  and  arranged  the  races  and  tribes  as 
Nestor  had  advised.  But  the  king  called  to  them 
in  a  loud  voice  to  fight  bravely,  and  when  all  was  in 
readiness  they  swept  forwards  with  a  din  and  outcry, 
like  a  flock  of  screeching  cranes. 


[27] 


Chapter  III 

Meeting  of  the  Armies  —  Menelaus  and  Paris  — 
Agamemnon  Leads  the  Greeks  into  Battle 


THE  Trojan  nobles  were  holding  a  council 
of  war  before  the  palace  when  Iris,  a 
messenger  from  Jupiter,  appearing  in  the 
shape  of  Priam’s  son  Polites,  joined  them.  He  came 
from  one  of  the  watch  towers  and  brought  the  news 
that  an  incalculable  number  of  Achaians  was  ap¬ 
proaching.  Hastily  the  council  broke  up,  each 
chief  going  to  assemble  his  people,  that  they  might 
be  ready  to  meet  the  Greeks  before  they  should 
reach  the  city  wall.  In  their  midst  were  many 
heroes,  but  distinguished  amongst  them  all  for 
invincible  strength  and  heroic  courage  were  Hector, 
son  of  Priam,  several  of  his  brothers,  and  also  iEneas, 
a  connection  of  the  royal  house. 

Masses  of  men  now  poured  out  of  the  open  city 
gates  and  ranged  themselves  in  long  lines  of  battle. 
The  Achaians  advanced  ever  nearer,  but  could  not 
be  distinguished  for  the  tremendous  dust  which 
arose  before  them,  enveloping  them  like  a  cloud. 
When  they  came  to  a  standstill  the  leaders  at  last 
recognized  one  another.  In  front  of  the  Trojans 
marched  the  godlike  Paris,  wearing  a  leopard  skin, 

[28] 


MEETING  OF  THE  ARMIES 


his  bow  slung  over  his  shoulder,  his  sword  on  his 
thigh,  and  swinging  two  javelins  in  his  right  hand. 
With  mocking  words  he  challenged  the  bravest 
Achaians  to  combat.  His  arch-enemy,  Menelaus, 
was  the  first  to  hear  him  and  his  heart  swelled  with 
anger,  while  he  burned  to  meet  the  robber  of  his 
honor.  He  guided  his  chariot  toward  him,  sprang 
hastily  down,  and  ran  to  meet  him,  eager  as  a  lion 
to  spring  upon  its  prey.  The  handsome  youth  was 
frightened  at  his  appearance  and  fled,  vanishing 
among  the  throng  of  Trojans. 

His  brother  Hector  saw  his  flight  and  was  indig¬ 
nant  at  the  sight.  “Coward,”  he  cried,  “would 
that  thou  hadst  never  been  born  or  else  hadst  died 
ere  ever  thou  didst  learn  to  seduce  women!  Now 
thou  hast  made  a  laughing-stock  of  thyself  before 
both  armies.  I  can  only  wonder  how  thou  hadst 
ever  the  courage  to  go  to  a  foreign  land  and  there 
to  steal  away  a  beautiful  woman.  The  deed  has 
been  the  undoing  of  us  all  and  brought  eternal  shame 
upon  thyself.  Menelaus  appears  quite  different  to 
thee  to-day,  I  suppose,  from  what  he  did  then? 
Had  he  caught  thee,  thy  lute  and  curled  hair,  thy 
slender  shape,  and  the  favor  of  Aphrodite  had 
availed  thee  little.  Were  the  Trojans  not  a  cowardly 
rabble  thou  wouldst  long  ago  have  paid  the  penalty 
for  all  thou  hast  brought  upon  them.” 

Paris  answered:  “Thou  art  right,  brother.  But 
forgive  me.  Wouldst  thou  see  me  fight,  bid  the 
others  cease  and  let  me  challenge  Menelaus  to 
single  combat  before  the  people.  Then  let  which- 

[29] 


ACHILLES 


ever  is  the  victor  take  Helen,  with  all  the  other 
treasures,  that  the  Trojans  and  Achaians  may  part 
in  peace.” 

These  words  pleased  Hector  and  he  advanced, 
holding  out  his  lance  before  the  Greeks  and  calling 
upon  them  to  cease  fighting.  The  arrows  of  the 
enemy  fell  about  him  like  rain  until  Agamemnon 
spied  him  and  cried  loudly:  “Stop,  men!  Do  not 
shoot,  for  he  wishes  to  speak  to  us.” 

Hector  called  out:  “Hear  me  now,  Achaians  and 
Trojans!  Paris,  my  brother,  the  cause  of  all  this 
trouble,  would  also  make  an  end  of  it  and  challenges 
Menelaus  to  single  combat.  Whichever  wins  shall 
take  both  Helen  and  the  treasure  and  the  death  of 
the  vanquished  shall  end  the  war.  Ye  shall  all 
return  to  your  homes  and  we  will  swear  a  bond  of 
friendship.” 

Menelaus  listened,  well  pleased,  and  stepped 
forth  to  accept  the  challenge,  only  stipulating  that 
a  solemn  pledge  should  be  taken  with  all  the  cus¬ 
tomary  sacrifices  and  observances  and  that  King 
Priam  should  himself  be  present  at  the  combat. 
All  this  was  willingly  granted. 

In  the  meanwhile  Agamemnon  and  Hector  sent 
for  the  lambs  and  goats  for  the  sacrifice.  Priam 
was  seated  upon  the  city  wall  near  the  Scsean  gate 
with  the  elders  who  were  no  longer  able  to  go  into 
battle,  and  there  the  message  was  brought  him  by 
a  herald.  Helen  also  received  the  message,  which  she 
heard  with  pleasure,  hoping  in  her  heart  that  Mene¬ 
laus  might  be  the  victor;  for  she  had  begun  to  long 

[30] 


MEETING  OF  THE  ARMIES 


for  her  former  husband,  her  native  city,  and  old 
friends.  She  hastily  wrapped  herself  in  a  silvery 
veil  of  linen  and  hurried  away  to  the  Scsean  gate, 
accompanied  by  two  female  attendants.  The  aged 
men  at  the  tower  were  entranced  with  her  beauty 
and  compared  her  to  one  of  the  immortal  goddesses. 
Priam  welcomed  her  kindly,  saying:  “Approach, 
my  daughter.  Sit  here  beside  me,  that  thou  mayest 
see  all  thy  dear  relatives  and  thy  former  husband. 
Do  not  weep.  It  is  not  thy  fault.  It  is  the  im¬ 
mortal  gods  who  have  sent  us  this  unhappy  war. 
But  tell  me,  who  is  that  stately  man  who  stands  out 
amongst  all  the  others,  so  noble  and  commanding 
in  appearance  ?” 

“How  kind  thou  art,  gracious  father,  and  how 
unhappy  am  I!”  answered  Helen.  “Would  I  had 
died  ere  I  followed  thy  son  hither.  That  stately 
hero  of  whom  thou  speakest  is  Agamemnon,  the 
powerful  king  of  Mycenae.  He  was  my  brother-in- 
law.  Alas!  would  that  he  were  now.” 

“So  that  is  Agamemnon !”  replied  Priam  slowly, 
observing  him  with  admiration.  “But  tell  me  more. 
I  see  one  who  is  not  so  tall,  but  with  broad  chest 
and  mighty  shoulders.  He  has  laid  his  weapons 
upon  the  ground  and  goes  among  the  soldiers,  from 
one  company  to  another,  even  as  a  ram  musters  the 
flock.” 

“That  is  Ulysses,  Laertes’  son,”  said  Helen;  “a 
good  soldier  and  the  wisest  of  them  all  in  council.” 

“That  is  true,  and  now  I  recognize  him  myself,” 
said  Antenor.  “He  came  with  Menelaus  into  the 

[3i] 


ACHILLES 


city,  as  ambassador  from  the  Achaians,  to  make 
terms  for  thee.” 

“But  look!”  cried  Priam.  “There  go  two  others, 
who  appear  to  be  powerful  kings.” 

“Truly  they  are  valiant  heroes,”  answered  Helen. 
“The  first  is  Ajax  of  Salamis  and  the  other  Idom- 
eneus,  king  of  Crete.  He  often  visited  us  and 
Menelaus  entertained  him  gladly,  for  he  is  an 
excellent  man.” 

While  this  conversation  was  going  on,  there  came 
a  herald  to  the  aged  king  to  announce  that  the 
chariot  was  waiting  to  take  him  to  the  battlefield. 
On  their  arrival  in  the  midst  of  the  two  armies, 
Agamemnon  advanced  to  meet  the  king,  surrounded 
by  the  other  princes.  Heralds  went  among  the 
company,  sprinkling  the  hands  of  each  with  water; 
for  none  might  perform  a  sacred  rite  with  unclean 
hands.  Then  Agamemnon  drew  a  great  knife  from 
his  belt  and  sheared  the  wool  from  the  lambs’  heads 
and  the  heralds  gave  a  piece  of  it  to  each  prince. 
Then  Agamemnon  lifted  up  his  hands  and  prayed: 
“Father  Jupiter,  glorious  ruler,  and  thou,  Helios, 
all-seeing  sungod;  ye  Streams  and  Earth  and  ye 
Shades  who  punish  those  who  swear  falsely,  be  ye 
witnesses  of  our  vows  and  of  this  solemn  treaty. 
If  Paris  vanquish  King  Menelaus,  he  shall  keep 
Helen  and  her  treasures  and  we  will  return  to  our 
country.  But  if  he  fall  in  the  fight,  the  Trojans 
shall  give  up  the  woman,  together  with  all  the 
treasure,  and  pay  us  besides  a  fair  tribute  in  this 
and  future  years.  And  should  they  ever  refuse  to 

[32] 


MEETING  OF  THE  ARMIES 


fulfil  this  vow,  I  shall  renew  the  war  and  never  stop 
until  I  have  received  full  satisfaction.”  All  took 
the  oath  and  the  king  cut  the  throats  of  the  lambs 
and  laid  them  down  upon  the  ground.  Then  each 
took  wine  and  poured  the  first  drops  upon  the  earth 
in  honor  of  the  gods,  saying:  “May  Jupiter  thus 
spill  the  blood  of  him  who  shall  first  break  the  sacred 
oath.,, 

“Worthy  men,”  said  old  Priam,  with  tears  in  his 
eyes,  “grant  me  leave  to  return  home  that  I  may 
not  look  upon  the  combat.  Let  Jupiter  decide. 
He  knoweth  best  the  right.”  With  these  words  he 
was  lifted  into  his  chariot  and  Antenor  drove  him 
swiftly  to  the  palace. 

Hector  and  Ulysses,  the  arbiters  of  the  combat, 
now  measured  off  the  ground  and  put  the  lots  in  a 
helmet,  one  for  Menelaus  and  one  for  Paris,  in  order 
to  decide  who  should  first  cast  his  spear.  Hector 
shook  the  helmet  until  one  of  the  lots  flew  out.  It 
was  that  of  Paris.  The  bystanders  at  once  retired 
to  a  distance  and  seated  themselves  in  a  circle. 
Paris,  in  shining  armor  and  carrying  a  heavy  javelin, 
advanced  from  one  side  and  Menelaus  from  the  other 
into  the  middle  of  the  arena.  They  shook  their 
weapons  fiercely  and  Paris  was  the  first  to  cast  his 
javelin.  But  he  struck  only  the  edge  of  Menelaus’ 
shield;  the  point  was  bent  and  the  spear  fell  harmless 
to  the  ground. 

Menelaus  cast  his  spear  with  such  force  that  it 
pierced  the  shield  and  would  have  penetrated  his 
heart  had  Paris  not  quickly  sprung  aside.  But  while 

[33] 


ACHILLES 


he  was  gazing  in  dismay  at  the  wreck  of  his  shield, 
Menelaus  sprang  upon  him  with  drawn  sword  and 
had  cloven  his  head  in  twain  had  not  the  thick 
helmet  shivered  the  brittle  blade.  For  the  third 
time  he  sprang  at  Paris  and  seized  him  by  the  helmet 
to  throw  him  to  the  ground,  but  at  the  same  moment 
the  chin  strap  broke  and  Menelaus’  arm  flew  up  and 
he  found  himself  holding  the  empty  helmet  in  his 
hand.  Paris  took  the  opportunity  to  rush  away 
and  take  refuge  among  the  Trojans,  and  when 
Menelaus  turned  to  cast  his  spear  a  second  time  at 
him,  he  had  already  disappeared.  It  was  the 
friendly  goddess  Aphrodite  who  had  saved  him. 

While  the  Greeks  were  loudly  acclaiming  the 
victor,  Jupiter  put  it  into  the  heart  of  a  Trojan  to 
shoot  an  arrow  at  Menelaus.  Pandarus  was  the 
man’s  name  and  Athena  herself  had  put  the  arrow 
into  his  hands  just  as  Menelaus  passed  under  the 
city  wall.  But  the  wound  was  not  dangerous  and 
was  quickly  dressed  by  Machaon  with  a  salve  which 
he  always  carried  about  him.  The  victorious  cries 
of  the  Achaians  now  changed  to  cries  of  rage.  All 
condemned  the  treacherous  act  and  called  down  the 
vengeance  of  Jupiter  upon  the  Trojan  people. 

Agamemnon  assembled  his  cohorts  once  more  and 
hastened  among  the  ranks  encouraging,  threatening. 
Brave  Idomeneus  he  found  ready  armed  amongst 
his  Cretans.  Next  he  mustered  the  tribes  under 
command  of  the  two  Ajaxes,  which  were  ready  to 
go  into  battle.  The  next  company  that  he  met 
were  the  Pylians,  under  the  command  of  young 

[34] 


ESCUE  OF  PARIS  BY  APHRODITE 


MEETING  OF  THE  ARMIES 


princes  whom  old  Nestor  directed.  The  old  man 
was  even  now  going  about  among  the  men,  restrain¬ 
ing  the  horsemen  and  placing  the  weaker  in  the 
middle,  with  the  more  courageous  and  experienced 
at  the  front  and  on  the  sides,  and  giving  much 
valuable  advice  to  the  young  leaders.  Well  pleased, 
Agamemnon  hurried  on  to  the  Athenians  and 
Cephallenians,  led  by  Menestheus  and  Ulysses.  He 
found  the  two  chieftains  conversing  unconcernedly 
together  and  called  to  them:  “Is  this  the  interest 
ye  take  in  the  war?  All  the  rest  are  armed  and 
ready  and  would  ye  be  left  behind?  Ye  are  always 
foremost  at  the  banquet  and  now  ye  look  on  while 
ten  companies  of  Achaians  enter  the  battlefield 
before  ye.,, 

Ulysses  answered,  darkly  frowning:  “What  words 
are  these,  oh  ruler?  When  hast  thou  ever  found  us 
tardy  in  battle?  When  the  fight  begins  we  shall 
not  be  far  away,  and  thou  shalt  see  the  father  of 
Telemachus  at  the  front  amongst  the  Trojan  horse¬ 
men.  Those  were  empty  words  thou  spakest!” 
Smiling  at  his  anger  Agamemnon  answered:  “Noble 
son  of  Laertes,  thou  needest  no  advice  nor  blame 
from  me,  for  we  are  of  one  mind.  Let  it  be  forgotten 
if  I  have  spoken  harshly.” 

He  hastened  to  the  next  company,  where  he  found 
Diomedes  and  Sthenelus  standing  together  in  their 
chariot,  the  former  with  sad  and  disheartened  mien. 
“What,  son  of  Tydeus!”  he  said  to  him,  “thou 
seemest  disturbed  and  art  trembling.  Thy  noble 
father  knew  no  fear.  What  deeds  that  man  accom- 

[35] 


ACHILLES 


plished!  His  son  is  less  heroic  in  battle,  though 
more  ready  of  tongue.” 

“  Speak  not  falsely,  Atride,”  answered  Sthenelus, 
as  Diomedes  bowed  respectfully  under  the  king’s 
reproaches.  “We  boast  ourselves  braver  than  our 
fathers,  for  they  led  many  foot-soldiers  and  horse¬ 
men  to  Thebes  and  failed  to  take  the  city,  while  we 
stormed  it  with  but  few  followers.  Do  not  praise 
our  fathers  at  our  expense.” 

“Silence,  friend,”  interrupted  Diomedes.  “I  do 
not  blame  Agamemnon  for  inciting  the  Achaians  to 
battle.  The  fame  and  gain  will  be  his  if  the  war  is 
ended  gloriously,  and  his  the  disgrace  and  ruin  should 
the  Achaians  be  put  to  flight.” 

With  these  words  he  sprang  from  the  chariot,  so 
that  his  bronze  harness  rattled,  and  began  to  arm 
himself  for  the  fight.  Agamemnon  passed  on. 
While  he  was  mustering  the  right  wing,  the  left 
advanced  to  the  attack.  They  moved  slowly  and 
silently  foward,  enveloped  in  a  cloud  of  dust.  At 
last  Achaians  and  Trojans  met;  shield  rang  against 
shield,  lance  broke  lance.  Now  loud  shouts  arose, 
and  mingled  with  the  battle  cries  were  heard  the 
groans  of  the  wounded  and  dying  being  dragged 
away  by  their  friends,  that  they  might  not  be 
trampled  upon  or  subjected  to  the  cruelties  of  the 
enemy.  Above  the  din  of  battle  rose  the  commands 
of  the  chieftains  and  the  cries  of  the  soldiers.  Swords 
hissed  through  the  air,  spears  whistled,  shields  rang 
against  one  another. 

Hector,  seeing  his  companions  give  way,  called  to 

[36] 


MEETING  OF  THE  ARMIES 


them:  “Forward,  Trojan  horsemen!  Come,  do  not 
leave  the  field  to  the  Argives.  They  are  made 
neither  of  iron  nor  stone  that  our  spears  should 
rebound  from  them,  and  Achilles,  the  great  hero, 
no  longer  fights  in  their  ranks.” 

The  Trojans  took  courage  at  this  and  renewed  the 
battle.  Diores,  the  Greek,  was  stretched  senseless 
upon  the  ground  by  a  heavy  stone,  and  just  as  his 
conqueror,  the  Trojan  Peirus,  had  given  him  the 
deathblow  with  his  spear  and  was  about  to  strip  his 
victim,  Thoas  the  ^Etolian  rushed  upon  him  with 
his  sword  and  he  fell  across  the  body  of  Diores. 
But  Thoas  was  obliged  to  flee  in  turn,  for  the  Trojans 
ran  up  to  carry  off  Peirus,  and  he  had  to  seek  other 
booty.  It  had  been  a  hot  day  and  horse  and  rider 
were  panting. 


[37] 


Chapter  IV 

Continuation  of  the  Battle —  The  Gods  Take  Part 


THE  sun  stood  high  in  the  heavens  and  the 
battle  continued  to  rage  with  the  greatest 
bitterness.  Hector  and  iEneas,  Agamem¬ 
non,  Ulysses,  and  the  other  great  heroes  raged  about 
the  broad  battlefield  like  beasts  of  prey.  Diomedes 
was  especially  favored  by  Athena  on  this  great  day 
and  laid  many  warriors  in  the  dust.  Among  the 
Trojans,  two  sons  of  the  rich  and  pious  priest  of 
Vulcan,  Dares,  spurred  forward  from  the  swarm  of 
warriors  against  him.  One  of  them  cast  his  spear 
at  the  hero,  but  missed  the  mark,  which  but  served 
to  enrage  the  warrior.  He  grimly  cast  back  at  the 
youth  and  pierced  him  through  the  heart.  His 
brother  turned  and  fled  and  Diomedes  quickly 
seized  the  handsome  steeds  and  commanded  his 
men  to  conduct  them  to  the  ships. 

One  could  not  tell  to  which  side  Diomedes  be¬ 
longed,  for  he  was  always  in  the  midst  of  the  fight. 
He  was  at  last  espied  by  Pandarus,  the  same  who 
had  broken  the  oath  by  shooting  at  Menelaus.  He 
approached  Diomedes  stealthily  from  behind  and 
shot  a  sharp  arrow  into  his  right  shoulder,  so  that 
blood  stained  his  coat  of  mail.  “  Come,  ye  Trojans,” 

[38] 


CONTINUATION  OF  THE  BATTLE 


he  cried,  “I  have  wounded  the  most  formidable  of 
the  Achaians.”  But  the  arrow  had  not  penetrated 
so  deeply  as  he  thought.  Diomedes  sought  his 
charioteer  Sthenelus.  “Friend,”  he  said,  “come 
quickly  and  pluck  this  arrow  from  my  shoulder.’’ 
As  it  was  withdrawn,  blood  spurted  from  the  wound 
and  the  warrior  prayed  to  Athena:  “Hear  me, 
goddess,  and  as  thou  hast  ever  been  my  protector 
in  battle,  oh  aid  me  now  and  let  me  slay  the  man 
who  hath  wounded  me  and  boasts  that  I  shall  not 
much  longer  see  the  light  of  day.” 

The  goddess  heard  him  and  stanched  the  blood. 
“Thou  canst  return  to  the  fight,”  she  said.  “I  have 
endowed  thee  with  the  strength  and  courage  of  thy 
father  and  will  distinguish  thee  to-day  above  all 
other  Achaians.  Only  take  care  not  to  oppose  the 
immortal  gods  in  battle,  but  attack  all  others 
courageously.  If  Jupiter’s  daughter  Aphrodite 
should  enter  the  field,  thou  mayest  wound  her  with 
thy  sharp  spear.”  The  goddess  disappeared  and 
Diomedes  flew  back  to  the  foremost  ranks  with 
renewed  ardor.  Behind  him  came  his  followers, 
ready  to  strip  his  victims  of  their  armor  and  to  carry 
away  the  captured  horses  and  chariots.  ^Eneas  called 
upon  Pandarus  and  said:  “Where  are  to-day  thy 
bow  and  never-failing  arrows?  Here  is  a  chance  to 
distinguish  thyself.  See,  there  is  a  man  who  has 
slain  many,  and  none  of  our  warriors  can  prevail 
against  him.” 

“That  is  Diomedes,  son  of  Tydeus,”  interrupted 
Pandarus;  “he  must  be  under  the  protection  of  a 

[39] 


ACHILLES 


god.  Already  my  arrow  has  wounded  him  so  that 
blood  spurted  from  the  place,  and  in  spite  of  this  he 
is  again  in  the  field  wielding  his  deadly  lance.  I 
dare  not  aim  at  him  again,  for  it  is  unlucky  to  con¬ 
tend  with  the  gods.  Besides,  I  came  on  foot  to 
Ilium  and  have  no  horses  or  chariot.” 

“Come,  friend,  take  mine  and  learn  what  Trojan 
horses  are.  Here,  take  the  whip  and  reins,  while  I 
remain  on  foot  and  watch  the  fight.” 

“Do  thou  guide  the  steeds  thyself,  iEneas,  for 
they  know  thee;  else  might  Diomedes  take  them 
captive  and  slay  us  too.  I  will  meet  him  with  the 
point  of  my  sharp  spear.” 

Together  they  mounted  the  handsome  chariot 
and  dashed  toward  Diomedes,  who  was  driving 
across  the  field  with  Sthenelus.  “Look!”  cried 
Sthenelus.  “There  come  two  heroes  making  for  us. 
Let  me  turn  back,  for  they  seem  bold  warriors,  and 
thou  art  weary  with  long  fighting  and  thy  painful 
wound.” 

“Not  so,”  said  Diomedes  angrily.  “It  is  not  my 
custom  thus  to  flee.  I  will  await  them  here,  and  if 
one  of  them  escape,  the  other  shall  be  my  prey. 
Do  thou  follow  me,  and  if  I  should  wound  them 
both,  seize  thou  the  enemy’s  steeds.  I  know  them. 
They  are  magnificent  horses  of  the  famous  breed 
which  Jupiter  once  gave  to  King  Thoas  for  his 
captured  son  Ganymede.  Hasten,  for  the  chariot 
is  already  upon  us.” 

He  swung  himself  to  the  ground  and  at  the  same 
moment  Pandarus’  arrow  struck  his  shield,  and 

[40] 


CONTINUATION  OF  THE  BATTLE 


though  it  made  him  stagger,  he  shook  the  shield  in 
Pandarus’  face  and  cried:  “Do  not  triumph  too 
soon,  but  rather  take  care  that  thou  thyself  escape 
death !”  iEneas  turned  his  steeds  in  terror,  but 
he  could  not  save  his  friend;  Diomedes’  spear 
had  struck  him  down.  As  iEneas  descended  to 
bear. away  the  body,  he  too  was  sorely  wounded. 
Sthenelus  meanwhile  led  away  the  beautiful  steeds 
and  they  were  taken  to  Diomedes’  tents. 

Aphrodite  now  approached  her  fainting  son  and 
her  merciful  arms  bore  him  off  the  field.  “It  must 
be  a  goddess  who  has  rescued  him,”  said  Diomedes 
to  himself.  “But  it  can  be  none  other  than  Aphro¬ 
dite,  who  appears  so  unwarlike.  Good,  I  will  over¬ 
take  her  and  attain  undying  fame.”  He  hastened 
after  the  goddess,  swung  his  spear,  and  wounded 
her  in  the  wrist,  so  that  her  clear  blood  stained  the 
earth.  The  goddess  screamed  and  let  the  warrior 
slip  from  her  arms,  but  he  was  again  rescued  by 
Phoebus  Apollo,  who  covered  him  with  a  dark  cloud. 

Diomedes  still  pursued  the  goddess  with  loud 
cries.  “Retire,  daughter  of  Jupiter,  and  leave  the 
battlefield  to  men.  It  is  bad  enough  that  thou 
causest  women  to  bring  such  misery  upon  the  nations. 
Woe  to  thee  shouldst  thou  come  near  me  in  the 
fight  1”  The  goddess  was  terrified  and  fled  as  fast 
as  she  could.  Iris  came  to  meet  her  and  conducted 
her  to  the  edge  of  the  battlefield,  where  Mars,  the 
god  of  war,  sat  gloating  over  his  work.  A  cloud 
surrounded  him  and  concealed  him  from  mortal  eyes. 
“Dear  brother.”  said  Aphrodite,  “lend  me  thy 

[41  ] 


ACHILLES 


horses  that  I  may  quickly  reach  Olympus.  Look! 
A  mortal  has  wounded  me.”  Iris  took  the  reins 
and  the  horses  flew  swiftly  away  through  the  air. 

Meanwhile  Diomedes  was  still  on  the  field  seeking 
HDneas,  and  not  until  he  heard  Apollo’s  threatening 
voice,  “Take  heed,  son  of  Tydeus,  and  give  way, 
tremble  and  do  not  strive  with  the  gods,”  did  he 
desist  and  remember  Athena’s  warning.  Apollo 
carried  Aphrodite’s  son  to  his  sacred  temple  on 
the  heights  of  Pergamus.  There  he  healed  and 
strengthened  him,  and  the  hero  soon  reappeared 
among  his  followers,  who  were  amazed  at  the  miracle. 
He  at  once  plunged  into  the  fight  and  slew  many 
brave  youths  among  the  Achaians. 

Apollo  had  meanwhile  complained  to  Mars  of  the 
defeat  of  the  Trojans  and  of  Diomedes’  insolence  in 
daring  to  attack  the  gods.  The  god  of  war,  who 
inclined  first  to  one  side,  then  to  the  other,  was 
persuaded  to  take  part  in  the  battle  himself,  and 
this  time  to  support  the  Trojans.  Concealed  in  a 
cloud,  he  strode  first  before  Hector,  then  before 
another  Trojan,  and  wherever  he  went  the  aim  never 
failed.  Diomedes,  however,  had  been  endowed  by 
his  friend  Athena  with  the  power  to  recognize  the 
gods  when  they  appeared  amongst  men,  so  that  he 
was  terrified,  as  he  was  about  to  throw  himself  upon 
Hector,  to  see  the  war  god  striding  before  him. 
He  started  back,  and  hastening  toward  the  other 
Greek  warriors  cried:  “Take  care,  friends,  give 
way  and  do  not  contend  with  the  gods!  For  Hector 
hath  ever  a  god  at  his  side.  Mars  is  with  him  now 

[42] 


CONTINUATION  OF  THE  BATTLE 


in  the  guise  of  a  mortal. ”  Diomedes,  in  awe  of  Mars, 
retired  from  the  field,  although  the  battle  still  raged. 
Hector  slew  two  of  the  bravest  Greek  warriors  and 
captured  their  horses.  Ajax  of  Salamis  looked 
grimly  on,  but  did  not  dare  attack  him;  he  preferred 
to  pursue  a  weaker  man,  Amphius  of  Paesus. 

The  battle  had  begun  almost  under  the  walls  of 
Troy,  but  the  Greeks  had  been  forced  back  nearly 
to  the  ships,  and  they  began  to  lose  courage.  Juno 
and  Athena  now  determined  to  protect  their  favorites; 
for  had  they  not  promised  Menelaus  to  avenge  his 
wrongs?  They  signed  Hebe  to  hitch  the  horses  to 
the  splendid  chariot.  Athena  donned  her  breast¬ 
plate,  put  on  her  golden  helmet,  and  took  up  her 
mighty  lance  and  the  shield  called  aegis.  It  was 
decorated  with  golden  tassels  and  in  the  midst  was 
the  head  of  Medusa,  the  mere  sight  of  which  turned 
men  to  stone.  Thus  armed,  she  mounted  the  shining 
chariot,  and  Juno,  standing  beside  her,  guided  the 
steeds.  The  gates  of  heaven,  guarded  by  the  Horae, 
opened  of  themselves  and  the  goddesses  stormed  the 
heights  of  Olympus,  where  the  father  of  the  gods 
was  sitting  in  solitude  looking  down  upon  the  con¬ 
fusion.  “Art  thou  not  angered,  Father  Jupiter,” 
spake  Juno,  “that  Mars  is  destroying  the  great  and 
noble  Achaian  people?  Wilt  thou  object  if  I  force 
him  from  the  field  ?  ” 

Jupiter  answered:  “To  work!  Set  Pallas  Athena 
upon  him.  She  will  soon  discomfit  him.” 

Overjoyed  at  the  permission,  Juno  turned  the 
horses  and  in  an  instant  they  had  descended  to  the 

[43] 


ACHILLES 


field  before  Troy.  They  paused  where  the  Simois 
flows  into  the  Scamander  and  enveloped  chariot  and 
steeds  in  a  thick  cloud.  Then  they  hastened  to  the 
side  of  Tydeus’  son,  and  in  Stentor’s  shape  and  with 
his  brazen  voice  Juno  cried  out:  “ Shame  upon  ye, 
people  of  Argos,  so  glorious  to  look  upon  and  so 
faint-hearted.  When  Achilles  was  among  you,  the 
Trojans  scarce  ventured  from  the  gates,  but  now 
that  the  only  man  among  you  is  gone,  they  push 
you  back  to  the  ships. ” 

Athena  approached  Diomedes  where  he  stood 
beside  his  chariot,  cooling  the  wound  which  Pandarus 
had  inflicted.  He  was  just  beginning  to  feel  the 
pain  of  it  and  could  scarcely  move  his  arm.  He 
loosened  the  leather  straps  and  pressed  out  the  blood. 
“Shame  upon  you,  son  of  Tydeus,”  said  the  goddess 
reproachfully.  “Thou  art  not  as  thy  noble  father. 
He  was  more  eager  for  the  fray  and  slew  countless 
men  of  Cadmus’  race  before  Thebes.  Thou  knowest 
that  I  never  leave  thy  side.  Speak,  how  can  fear 
have  dominion  over  thee?” 

“Goddess,”  answered  the  hero,  “for  I  recognize 
thy  voice,  neither  sloth  nor  fear  restrain  me,  but  I 
remember  thy  command.  I  plunged  into  the  thick 
of  the  fight  and  piled  corpse  on  corpse,  until  I  saw 
Mars,  the  terrible,  who  fights  in  the  front  ranks  of 
the  Trojans.  I  gave  way  before  him  and  warned 
the  others;  for  who  shall  fight  against  the  gods?” 

The  goddess  answered:  “Diomedes,  beloved  of 
my  soul,  henceforth  fear  neither  Mars  nor  any  of  the 
immortals,  for  I  am  beside  thee.  Turn  thy  prancing 

[44] 


CONTINUATION  OF  THE  BATTLE 


horses  upon  Mars  and  wound  him  boldly  at  close 
range,  the  unstable  one.” 

She  then  took  Sthenelus’  place  in  the  chariot, 
wearing  the  helm  of  Aides,  which  rendered  her 
invisible  even  to  Mars.  She  guided  the  chariot 
straight  towards  him.  When  Mars  saw  Diomedes 
approaching  he  turned  towards  him,  and  leaning 
over,  was  about  to  plunge  his  spear  into  his  body, 
but  Athena  turned  it  aside,  and  now  Diomedes  gave 
him  such  a  thrust  in  the  side  that  a  mortal  would 
certainly  have  succumbed.  He  withdrew  the  shaft 
and  Mars  fled,  howling  like  ten  thousand  men. 
Both  Achaians  and  Trojans  were  terrified  at  the  din 
and  Diomedes  was  amazed  at  his  own  deed  and  saw 
with  astonishment  the  god  rise  up  into  the  sky. 
There  he  showed  the  painful  wound  to  Jupiter  and 
complained  loudly  of  Athena. 

But  the  father  of  the  gods  answered  grimly: 
“ Spare  me  thy  whining!  I  despise  thee  above  all 
the  gods.  Thou  hast  always  loved  quarrels  and 
bickerings  and  art  as  stubborn  and  contentious  as 
thy  mother,  Juno.  But  I  cannot  see  my  son  suffer.” 
With  these  words  he  commanded  Paeon,  the  physi¬ 
cian  of  Olympus,  to  heal  him.  He  placed  a  cooling 
balm  upon  the  wound  and  Mars  was  healed,  for  he 
was  immortal.  Then  Juno  bathed  him  and  clothed 
him  with  soft  garments.  As  soon  as  the  murderous 
Mars  had  been  driven  from  the  field  the  goddesses 
returned  to  the  dwellings  of  the  Olympian  gods. 


[45 1 


Chapter  v 

The  Greeks  are  Successful — Hector  Hastens  to 
the  City  —  Glaucus  and  Diomedes ,  Hector 
and  Andromache 


THE  day  was  declining,  but  once  more  the 
Achaians  pressed  forward  with  renewed 
courage,  knowing  that  Mars  was  no  longer 
on  the  field.  The  Trojans  gave  way  before  them, 
and  soon  they  were  near  enough  to  see  again  the 
elders  and  the  women  upon  the  city  walls.  Hector 
and  .Eneas  did  their  best  to  spur  the  soldiers  to 
resistance,  but  without  avail.  Then  Helenus,  one 
of  Priam’s  sons,  who  had  the  gift  of  prophecy,  spake 
unto  Hector:  “Dear  brother,  do  thou  and  .Eneas 
try  once  more  to  encourage  the  people.  Then  go 
and  leave  the  battle  to  us.  Hasten  into  the  city. 
Tell  our  mother  quickly  to  summon  the  noble 
women  of  the  city  to  Athena’s  sacred  temple  and 
there  to  lay  her  most  costly  garment  in  the  lap  of 
the  goddess.  Furthermore  she  shall  promise  to 
sacrifice  twelve  yearling  calves  upon  Athena’s  altar, 
if  she  will  repulse  that  terrible  warrior,  Tydeus’  son.” 

Hector  carried  out  his  brother’s  bidding  and  while 
he  was  away  the  Achaians  regained  the  supremacy. 

[46] 


THE  GREEKS  A  R  E  S  U  C  C  E  S  S  F  U  L 


Nestor  went  busily  about  admonishing  them  not  to 
waste  any  time  in  collecting  booty,  but  only  to  kill, 
kill,  kill.  Afterward,  he  said,  there  would  be  plenty 
of  time  to  strip  the  accoutrements  from  the  slain. 
Diomedes  the  insatiable,  panting  still  for  fresh 
conquests,  espied  a  man  among  the  Trojans  whom  he 
had  never  seen  before,  but  who  appeared  by  his  rich 
armor,  his  stature,  and  commanding  mien  to  be  one 
of  the  leaders.  When  they  had  approached  each 
other  within  a  spear’s  cast,  they  both  reined  in  their 
steeds  and  Diomedes  cried  out  to  the  enemy:  “Who 
art  thou,  excellent  sir?  I  have  not  seen  thee  before, 
although  thou  seemest  to  be  a  practised  warrior. 
Art  thou  some  god  ?  Then  would  I  not  contend  with 
thee,  for  such  rashness  hath  ever  brought  misfortune 
to  a  mortal.  But  if  thou  art  a  man  like  myself, 
advance,  that  thou  mayest  quickly  meet  thy  doom.” 

It  was  Glaucus,  Hippolochus’  son,  who  answered: 
“Oh  son  of  Tydeus,  dost  thou  ask  who  I  am?  The 
children  of  men  are  like  the  leaves  of  the  forest, 
blown  about  by  the  winds  and  budding  anew  when 
Spring  approaches.  One  flourishes  and  another 
fades.  My  race  is  a  glorious  one.  It  sprang  from 
the  Argive  land  and  my  ancestors  ruled  the  city  of 
Ephyra.  Anolus  was  the  founder  of  my  family; 
Sisyphus,  his  son,  was  that  wise  king  whose  son  was 
Glaucus;  his  son  in  turn  the  glorious  Bellerophon, 
endowed  by  the  gods  with  superhuman  beauty  and 
strength.  Who  has  not  heard  of  his  heroic  deeds? 
He  slew  Chimaera,  the  creature  with  a  lion’s  head, 
a  dragon’s  tail,  and  body  of  a  goat  —  a  savage, 

[47] 


ACHILLES 


ravening  monster.  Next  he  conquered  the  king’s 
hostile  neighbors,  gaining  every  battle.  The  king 
gave  him  his  beautiful  daughter  and  half  of  his  king¬ 
dom.  His  two  sons  were  Isander  and  Hippolochus, 
who  is  my  father.  He  sent  me  hither  to  Troy  and 

admonished  me  to  excel  all  others  and  never  to 

♦ 

disgrace  my  ancestors.” 

Diomedes  planted  his  spear  in  the  sand,  crying 
joyfully:  “Then  thou  art  my  friend  for  old  times’ 
sake.  My  grandfather  CEneus  entertained  the  glori¬ 
ous  Bellerophon  in  his  house  for  twenty  days,  and 
on  his  departure  they  exchanged  gifts  in  token  of 
friendship.  CEneus’  gift  was  a  purple  girdle  and 
Bellerophon’s  a  golden  goblet,  which  I  have  in  my 
possession  and  often  admire.  Therefore  thou  shalt 
be  my  guest  in  Argos  and  I  thine,  if  I  should  ever 
visit  Lycia.  So  let  us  avoid  each  other  in  the  battle. 
There  remain  enough  Trojans  for  me  and  enough 
Achaians  for  thee  to  kill.  But  as  a  pledge  of  the 
agreement  let  us  exchange  armor  that  it  may  be 
seen  that  we  are  friends  of  old  standing.”  They 
descended  from  their  chariots,  shook  hands  cordially, 
and  took  off  their  armor.  Glaucus  got  the  worst 
of  the  bargain,  for  his  breastplate  and  shield  were  of 
gold,  while  those  of  Diomedes  were  only  of  brass. 
However,  he  gave  them  up  gladly.  They  then 
renewed  their  vows  of  friendship  and  drove  rapidly 
away  in  opposite  directions. 

When  Hector  reached  the  Scaean  gate  he  was 
surrounded  by  Trojan  women  inquiring  for  their 
sons,  brothers,  and  husbands,  but  he  could  not  stay 

[48] 


THE  GREEKS  ARE  SUCCESSFUL 


to  comfort  them  and  hastened  away  to  his  father’s 
palace,  where  he  sought  out  his  venerable  mother, 
Hecuba.  “Dear  son,”  she  began,  “why  hast  thou 
deserted  the  battlefield  to  come  hither?  The  cruel 
Achaians  are  pressing  us  hard.  But  tarry  until  I 
bring  thee  good  wine,  that  thou  mayest  make  an 
offering  to  the  gods  and  then  refresh  thyself;  for 
wine  giveth  strength  to  a  weary  man.” 

“Not  so,  mother,”  answered  Hector.  “Befouled 
as  I  am,  how  can  I  sacrifice  to  the  gods?  Not  for 
this  did  I  come  hither,  but  to  bring  thee  a  message 
from  Helenus.”  Then  he  repeated  his  brother’s 
instructions  and  Hecuba  hastened  to  obey  them. 

Hector  meanwhile  made  his  way  to  the  handsome 
palace  of  Paris,  where  he  found  his  brother  turning 
over  and  examining  his  weapons.  Helen  sat  by  the 
fireside  among  her  maidens,  occupied  with  domestic 
tasks.  “Strange  man!”  said  Hector.  “I  cannot 
understand  thy  conduct.  The  people  are  melting 
away  before  the  walls  and  this  bloody  battle  is 
chiefly  on  thine  account.  Thou  wert  always  bitter 
against  the  slothful  and  hast  ever  encouraged  others 
to  fight.  Come,  let  us  go,  before  the  city  is  fired  by 
the  enemy.” 

“Gladly  will  I  follow  thee,  brother,”  answered 
Paris.  “Thy  reproaches  are  just.  I  have  been 
brooding  upon  my  misfortune,  but  my  wife  has  just 
persuaded  me  to  return  to  the  field,  and  I  am  ready. 
Tarry  a  while  until  I  have  put  on  my  armor  or  else 
go  and  I  will  follow  thee.” 

“Dear  Hector,”  spake  gracious  Helen  sadly, 

[49] 


ACHILLES 


“how  it  grieves  me  to  see  you  all  engaged  in  this 
cruel  war,  for  the  sake  of  a  contemptible  woman 
like  myself.  O  that  I  had  been  destroyed  at  birth 
or  had  been  flung  into  the  sea!  Or,  if  the  gods  have 
destined  me  to  such  misfortune,  would  at  least  that 
I  had  fallen  into  the  hands  of  a  brave  man,  who 
would  take  the  disgrace  and  reproaches  of  his  family 
to  heart  and  could  wipe  out  his  shame  by  heroic 
deeds.  But  Paris  is  not  a  man.  Enter  and  be 
seated,  Hector,  for  thou  has  toiled  most  arduously 
in  my  behalf  and  suffered  most  for  thy  brother’s 
crime.” 

“Thy  gracious  invitation  I  may  not  accept,” 
answered  Hector,  “for  my  heart  urges  me  to  return 
to  aid  the  Trojans.  I  beg  thee  persuade  Paris  to 
overtake  me  before  I  leave  the  city.  Now  I  must 
go  to  my  own  house  to  see  my  wife  once  more  and 
little  son;  for  who  knoweth  whether  I  shall  ever 
return?” 

He  did  not  find  his  spouse  at  home,  but  on  the 
tower  at  the  Scsean  gate,  where  she  was  following  the 
fate  of  the  Trojans.  As  he  neared  the  gate  she  came 
to  meet  him,  the  modest,  sensible  Andromache, 
and  behind  her  came  the  nurse  with  the  little  boy. 
His  loving  wife  took  him  tenderly  by  the  hand  and 
wept  over  him.  “Thy  courage  will  surely  be  thy 
death,”  she  said.  “Take  pity  on  thy  miserable  wife 
and  infant  son,  for  the  Achaians  will  surely  kill  thee, 
and  then  I  had  best  sink  into  the  earth;  for  what 
would  remain  for  me?  I  am  alone.  Hector,  thou 
art  father  and  mother  and  brother  to  me,  my  precious 

[So] 


THE  GREEKS  ARE  SUCCESSFUL 


husband.  Take  pity  on  me  and  remain  in  the 
tower.  Do  not  make  me  a  widow  and  thy  son  an 
orphan.” 

Hector  answered:  “Dearly  beloved,  l  am  troubled 
also  at  thy  fate,  but  I  could  not  face  the  Trojan 
people  if  I  shunned  danger  like  a  coward.  True,  I 
foresee  the  day  when  sacred  Ilium  will  fall,  bringing 
disaster  upon  the  king  and  all  the  people,  and  thy 
fate  touches  me  more  nearly  than  that  of  father, 
mother,  or  brothers.  Thou  mayest  be  carried  away 
to  slavery  in  Argos  to  labor  for  a  cruel  mistress. 
Rather  would  I  be  in  the  grave  than  see  thee  in 
misery.” 

Sadly  the  hero  stretched  out  his  arms  to  his  boy, 
but  the  child  hid  his  face  in  the  nurse’s  bosom, 
terrified  at  the  helmet  with  its  fluttering  plumes. 
Smiling,  the  father  took  it  off  and  laid  it  on  the 
ground,  and  now  the  boy  went  to  him  willingly. 
He  kissed  the  child  tenderly,  and  turning  his  eyes 
heavenward  prayed  fervently;  “Jupiter  and  ye  other 
gods,  grant  that  my  boy  may  be  a  leader  among  the 
Trojans  like  his  father  and  powerful  in  Ilium,  that 
sometime  it  may  be  said:  ‘He  is  much  greater  than 
his  father.’  May  his  mother  rejoice  in  him.” 

As  he  placed  the  child  in  its  mother’s  arms,  she 
smiled  through  her  tears.  “Poor  wife,”  he  said, 
caressing  her,  “do  not  grieve  too  much.  I  shall  not 
be  sent  to  Hades  unless  it  is  my  fate  —  no  one  can 
escape  his  destiny,  be  he  high  or  low.  Do  thou 
attend  to  thine  affairs  at  home  and  keep  thy  maidens 
busily  at  work.  Men  are  made  for  war,  and  I  most 

[SI] 


ACHILLES 


of  all.”  He  picked  up  his  helmet  and  hurried  away. 
Andromache  went  also,  but  often  turned  to  gaze 
after  her  dear  husband. 

Paris  overtook  his  brother  at  the  gate.  “Do  not 
be  angry,  brother,  at  my  tardiness,”  he  said.  “My 
good  fellow,”  answered  Hector,  “thou  art  a  brave 
warrior,  but  often  indifferent.  I  cannot  bear  the 
scornful  gossip  of  the  people  who  are  enduring  so 
much  for  thy  sake.  But  we  will  talk  of  this  another 
time  —  perhaps  when  we  shall  make  a  thankoffering 
for  the  defeat  of  the  Achaians.”  Thus  speaking 
they  hastened  towards  the  battlefield. 


t 


[52] 


Chapter  VI 

Hector  and  Ajax  in  Single  Combat  —  A  Truce 
—  Another  Battle  at  the  Ships 


TO  the  weary  Trojans  the  appearance  of  the 
two  heroes  was  as  welcome  as  a  long- 
desired  breeze  after  a  calm  at  sea  to  a 
sailor,  and  they  soon  made  their  presence  felt. 
Pierced  by  Paris’  arrow,  the  excellent  Menestheus 
fell  and  Hector  slew  the  valiant  Eioneus.  Many 
another  who  had  believed  Hector  far  away  met 
death  at  his  hands. 

Then  came  his  brother  Helenus,  the  seer,  and 
bade  him  summon  a  warrior  from  among  the  Achaians 
to  come  forth  and  light  with  him  in  single  combat. 
The  gods  had  revealed  to  him  that  the  day  of  Hector’s 
doom  was  not  yet  come.  Immediately  the  hero 
ran  to  the  front,  and  requesting  a  truce  cried  out: 
“Hear  me,  ye  Trojans  and  Achaians!  Jupiter  hath 
brought  to  naught  our  agreement,  and  our  quarrel 
has  not  been  settled  as  we  hoped.  Let  us  now 
arrange  a  second  combat.  Send  your  most  valiant 
warrior  forth  to  light  with  me.  If  he  slay  me,  let 
him  take  my  costly  armor,  but  my  body  he  shall 
send  to  Ilium,  that  my  bones  may  be  burned  and 

[53] 


ACHILLES 


the  ashes  preserved.  Should  the  gods  grant  that  I 
slay  him,  then  I  will  hang  his  armor  in  the  temple  of 
Phoebus  Apollo.  But  ye  may  raise  a  fitting  monu¬ 
ment  on  the  shore,  so  that  when  his  grandchild  sails 
the  Hellespont  and  passes  the  high  promontory  he 
may  say:  ‘That  is  the  mighty  monument  to  the 
brave  hero  whom  Hector  slew  in  the  final  combat.’” 

For  a  while  all  was  quiet  in  the  Greek  camp. 
Each  was  waiting  for  the  other  to  offer  himself,  for 
it  was*  a  hazardous  undertaking.  At  last  Menelaus 
arose,  overcome  by  a  rising  feeling  of  shame,  and 
cried  angrily  to  the  other  princes:  “Ha!  ye  who 
can  boast  so  well  at  home  and  on  the  battlefield  are 
women,  where  is  your  courage  now?  It  would 
indeed  be  our  everlasting  shame  if  none  of  the 
Achaians  dared  match  himself  with  Hector.  Sit 
still,  ye  cowards!  I  will  gird  myself  for  the  fight. 
The  victory  lies  in  the  hands  of  the  immortal  gods.” 

He  began  to  put  on  his  armor,  but  the  other  kings, 
and  even  his  brother,  restrained  him.  “Stay,  my 
brother,”  said  Agamemnon;  “do  not  be  in  a  hurry 
to  take  up  the  challenge.  Some  other  valiant 
Achaian  will  doubtless  come  forward.”  Menelaus 
reluctantly  obeyed,  and  now  old  Nestor  began  to 
reproach  the  faint-hearted  warriors.  “Your  hearts 
have  no  courage  and  your  bones  no  marrow,”  he 
said.  “If  I  were  like  myself  of  old,  when  I  slew 
the  hero  Ereuthalion,  Hector  should  soon  find  his 
man.” 

Abashed  at  Nestor’s  well-merited  rebuke,  nine 
men  arose  and  came  forward.  Agamemnon  himself 

[54] 


HECTOR  AND  AJAX  IN  COMBAT 


was  among  them  and  the  two  Ajaxes;  the  others 
were  Diomedes,  Ulysses,  Idomeneus,  and  his  char¬ 
ioteer  Meriones,  Eurypylus,  and  Thoas.  It  was 
proposed  that  they  draw  lots,  and  it  fell  to  the  elder 
Ajax,  who  was  proud  of  the  honor  that  had  come  to 
him.  “I  trust  that  Jupiter  will  give  me  the  victory, 
for  I  am  not  unskilful  and  fear  not  the  foeman;  but 
pray  for  me  that  Jupiter  may  give  me  success,”  he  said. 

Ajax  now  rushed  forward  to  meet  the  waiting 
Hector.  Truly  he  was  no  mean  adversary,  being  a 
man  of  powerful  build.  His  armor  was  impene¬ 
trable  and  it  was  this  fact  alone  which  now  saved 
him  from  certain  death.  His  shield  was  composed 
of  seven  layers  of  cowhide  with  an  iron  covering; 
helmet  and  breastplate  were  equally  strong.  Ac¬ 
cording  to  the  custom  of  the  time,  the  combat  did 
not  begin  at  once  and  in  silence,  but  the  warriors 
first  paused  to  taunt  and  revile  each  other. 

Ajax  cried  out:  “Now  thou  canst  see,  Hector, 
that  there  are  still  men  among  the  Achaians  who 
are  not  afraid  to  accept  thy  challenge,  even  though 
Achilles  is  not  with  us.  I  am  but  one  of  many. 
Come,  let  us  to  work!” 

“Thinkest  thou  to  anger  me  by  thy  defiance,  son 
of  Telamon?”  answered  Hector.  “Do  not  deceive 
thyself.  I  know  how  to  hurl  the  spear  and  turn 
the  shield  so  that  no  bolt  can  touch  me.  My  deeds 
bear  witness  to  my  words.  Beware,  valiant  hero, 
I  shall  not  attack  thee  with  craft,  but  openly.” 

At  the  same  moment  he  hurled  the  great  spear  with 
all  his  might,  and  it  pierced  six  of  the  leathern  layers 

V  [  55  ] 


ACHILLES 


of  Ajax’s  shield  before  its  power  was  spent.  Ajax 
quickly  aimed  his  own  at  Hector’s  breast.  Hector’s 
shield  was  not  strong  enough  to  withstand  the  blow; 
however,  by  a  quick  turn  of  his  body,  he  prevented 
the  point  from  entering  his  flesh.  Both  men  now 
withdrew  their  spears  from  the  shields  and  threw 
themselves  upon  each  other.  But  Hector’s  well- 
aimed  blow  only  blunted  the  point  of  his  lance  and 
Ajax’s  spear  slipped  on  the  smooth  surface  of  Hector’s 
shield,  wounding  him  slightly  in  the  neck.  Then 
Hector  turned  hastily  to  pick  up  a  stone,  which  he 
hurled  with  all  his  might  at  Ajax’s  head,  but  the 
hero  warded  it  off  with  his  shield.  Ajax  then  picked 
up  a  much  larger  stone,  which  he  threw,  breaking 
Hector’s  shield  and  wounding  his  knee.  No  doubt 
Hector  would  have  attacked  him  once  more  had 
the  Greeks  themselves  not  interfered,  sending  for¬ 
ward  a  herald  who  separated  the  heroes,  saying: 
“Warriors,  it  is  enough.  Ye  are  good  fighters  and 
beloved  of  Jupiter;  that  we  have  all  seen.  But 
night  is  falling  and  the  darkness  bids  us  cease  our 
strife.” 

“Very  well,  friend,”  said  Ajax.  “Bid  Hector 
lay  down  his  arms,  for  he  began  the  fight.  When 
he  is  ready  to  stop,  I  also  am  willing.” 

Then  Hector  said  calmly:  “Ajax,  thou  hast  borne 
thyself  manfully  and  some  god  hath  lent  thee  strength 
and  skill.  Let  us  now  rest  and  renew  the  fight 
another  time,  until  death  shall  claim  one  of  us.  Go 
thou  to  feast  with  thy  people,  while  I  return  to 
Priam’s  city.  But  before  we  part  let  us  exchange 

[56] 


HECTOR  AND  AJAX  IN  COMBAT 


gifts  that  future  generations  may  say,  *  Behold,  they 
fought  a  bitter  fight,  then  parted  in  friendship. 5  ” 

Thereupon  he  presented  Ajax  with  his  finely-chased 
sword  with  its  graceful  scabbard  and  Ajax  gave  him 
his  purple  belt.  Thus  they  parted,  each  side  wel¬ 
coming  his  man  with  cries  of  triumphant  joy. 
Agamemnon  entertained  the  chieftains  in  his  tent 
as  usual  and  to-day  he  set  the  largest  and  choicest 
pieces  before  Ajax.  When  the  meal  was  ended 
Nestor  began:  “ Listen  to  my  advice,  chieftains. 
Let  us  pause  to-morrow  long  enough  to  bury  our 
dead.  We  will  burn  the  bodies  that  each  may 
gather  the  ashes  of  his  friends  to  bear  them  home 
to  his  people.  But  here  we  will  erect  a  great  monu¬ 
ment  to  mark  the  place  where  the  brave  warriors 
have  fallen.  I  have  also  another  proposal  to  make. 
What  think  ye  if  we  should  hastily  construct  a  deep 
moat  and  a  bulwark  with  a  great  gateway  around  our 
camp?  Then  we  should  be  as  safe  in  our  tents  as 
in  a  walled  city.”  The  counsel  of  the  old  man  was 
received  with  universal  approval  and  Agamemnon 
determined  to  set  to  work  at  once. 

The  Trojan  princes  too  were  holding  council  to 
decide  what  they  should  do  to  force  the  Achaians  to 
retire.  Antenor,  the  wise,  urged  the  return  of  Helen, 
but  none  would  consent,  not  even  Priam  and  Hector, 
to  force  Paris  to  give  up  his  beloved  wife.  “I  will 
gladly  return  the  treasure  which  we  took  from 
Menelaus,”  he  said,  “and  give  him  plentifully  of 
mine  own,  if  that  will  propitiate  the  Achaians. 
But  never  will  I  give  up  Helen,” 


[57] 


ACHILLES 


“For  the  present  let  us  be  on  our  guard,”  answered 
King  Priam,  “and  to-morrow  let  Idseus  go  down 
and  give  Paris’  message  to  the  Achaians  and  ask  if 
they  are  not  inclined  to  an  armistice,  until  we  have 
burned  the  dead  and  paid  them  funeral  honors.” 

Early  the  next  morning  Idaeus  went  forth  on  his 
errand.  He  entered  Agamemnon’s  tent  and  de¬ 
livered  his  message.  The  Greeks  welcomed  the 
proposal  for  a  truce,  but  Paris’  offer  was  rejected 
with  disdain.  “Let  no  one  take  Paris’  property,” 
roared  Diomedes.  “We  no  longer  fight  for  Paris’ 
wealth,  nor  even  for  Helen.  Even  though  he  should 
send  her  back,  Troy  shall  fall,  and  truly  the  end  is 
not  far  off!”  Agamemnon  and  the  other  chieftains 
all  signified  their  approval  and  the  herald  took  the 
message  back  to  the  city. 

Meanwhile  the  greater  part  of  the  Achaians  were 
engaged  in  digging  a  moat  and  building  a  wall  about 
the  camp.  The  outcome  showed  that  this  precau¬ 
tion  had  not  been  unnecessary,  for  as  soon  as  the 
battle  was  renewed  the  Achaians  began  to  lose 
ground.  Jupiter  forbade  the  gods  to  take  sides, 
and  driving  the  celestial  steeds  himself,  he  descended 
from  Olympus  to  Mount  Ida,  from  whence  he  could 
observe  the  battlefield.  The  slaughter  had  begun 
early  in  the  morning  and  already  many  Trojans  had 
fallen,  and  still  more  Achaians,  for  the  Trojans 
fought  desperately. 

A  little  past  noon  a  threatening  storm  gathered 
on  Mount  Ida  and  the  people  recognized  the  presence 
of  the  father  of  the  gods,  for  he  alone  had  power  over 

[58] 


HECTOR  AND  AJAX  IN  COMBAT 


the  flashing  lightning.  It  was  soon  apparent  whom 
he  favored,  for  suddenly  a  terrible  thunderbolt  with 
blinding  flashes  struck  the  foremost  ranks  of  the 
Achaians,  so  that  all  were  panic-stricken  and  none 
dared  remain  on  the  field  against  the  will  of  Jupiter. 
All  fled  to  the  ships,  pale  with  terror.  Nestor  was 
about  to  follow,  when  an  arrow  from  Paris’  bow  laid 
one  of  his  horses  low,  and  if  Diomedes  had  not  come 
to  his  rescue,  he  would  certainly  have  fallen  a  prey 
to  the  pursuing  Trojans.  Filled  with  renewed 
courage  at  the  thunderbolts  of  Jove,  which  they 
took  for  favorable  omens,  they  were  like  dogs  on 
the  track  of  the  frightened  flock.  Hector  called 
loudly  upon  his  people  to  attack  the  wall  and  gave 
orders  that  firebrands  be  brought  from  the  city  to* 
fire  the  ships.  But  the  Trojans  were  dubious  about 
attacking  the  Greeks  within  their  fortifications. 
They  were  not  well  prepared  for  such  an  undertaking. 

The  Greeks  now  stood  behind  the  wall,  huddled 
close  to  the  ships.  The  terrible  thunderstorm  had 
passed  over  and  the  sun  shone  once  more.  Aga¬ 
memnon  boarded  a  ship,  where  he  might  be  seen 
and  heard  by  all.  The  warriors  were  silent  while 
he  cried:  “Shame  upon  you,  sons  of  Argos,  who  in 
Lemnos  boasted  that  ye  would  each  fight  one  hundred 
Trojans!  Now  ye  flee  like  frightened  deer  before 
a  single  man.  Already  Hector  threatens  to  burn 
the  ships.  No  wonder!  It  is  your  cowardice  which 
makes  him  bold.  Oh,  father  Jupiter,  hast  thou 
ever  cursed  a  king  as  thou  hast  me?  And  yet  how 
many  fat  cattle  have  I  not  offered  up?  On  the  way 

'  [59] 


ACHILLES 


hither  I  did  not  pass  by  a  single  one  of  thy  sacred 
temples  where  I  did  not  stop  to  burn  fat  haunches 
in  thine  honor.  Thou  hast  doubtless  determined 
to  destroy  us  here.” 

Full  of  pity,  the  father  of  gods  and  men  looked 
down  upon  him  and  made  a  sign  that  he  would  save 
the  Danaeans.  He  sent  an  eagle  bearing  a  young 
deer  in  its  beak,  which  it  dropped  as  it  flew  high 
above  the  Greek  camp,  so  that  it  fell  palpitating 
before  the  altar  of  Jupiter  on  the  ships.  As  soon  as" 
the  Greeks  saw  this  favorable  sign,  they  pressed 
forward  with  fresh  zeal  into  the  Trojan  lines.  The 
heroes  were  like  ravening  wolves.  Teucer  of  Salamis, 
who  was  skilful  with  the  bow,  remained  beside  his 
brother  Ajax,  who  covered  him  with  his  shield 
whenever  he  was  in  danger.  Every  arrow  hit  its 
mark.  Agamemnon  looked  on  with  delight,  and 
clapping  the  youth  on  the  shoulder,  he  cried:  “Well 
done,  my  dear  fellow!  Thus  shalt  thou  bring  joy 
and  glory  to  thy  father  in  his  old  age.  If  the  gods 
grant  me  the  victory  over  Troy  thy  reward  shall 
not  fail  —  whether  it  be  a  tripod,  a  pair  of  horses 
and  a  chariot,  or  a  beautiful  slave  girl.” 

Soon  afterward  Hector’s  chariot  came  galloping 
up.  Teucer  quickly  set  an  arrow  to  his  bow  and 
aimed  at  the  hero,  but  the  missile  went  astray  and 
Hector  did  not  see  the  youth.  Teucer  shot  another 
arrow,  which  pierced  the  charioteer’s  breast.  Hector 
sprang  down,  and  just  as  Teucer  was  taking  aim  for 
the  third  time,  a  rock  from  Hector’s  hand  struck 
his  breast  and  he  sank  on  his  knees.  Ajax  covered 
[60] 


HECTOR  AND  AJAX  IN  COMBAT 


him  with  his  shield  until  soldiers  came  up  and  carried 
the  wounded  youth  away  to  his  tent. 

Juno  and  Athena,  gazing  sadly  at  the  unfortunate 
outcome  of  the  battle,  ventured  in  their  resentment 
to  disobey  the  command  of  the  father  of  the  gods 
and  go  to  the  rescue  of  the  hard-pressed  Achaians. 
But  Jupiter  espied  them  and  sent  the  gold-winged 
Iris  to  warn  them  to  turn  back  or  he  would  strike 
them  with  a  thunderbolt  that  would  shatter  their 
chariot  and  teach  them  not  to  resist  father  and 
husband.  Pouting,  they  obeyed,  and  in  a  rage 
arrived  at  Olympus  and  seated  themselves  in  the 
great  hall.  Soon  afterwards  the  mountain  trembled 
at  the  tread  of  Jupiter,  who  entered  the  hall  and 
seated  himself  on  his  golden  throne  with  dark  looks 
at  his  wife  and  daughter,  whose  glances  were  fixed 
defiantly  on  the  ground. 

“Why  are  ye  so  sad?”  he  began  mockingly.  “Ye 
did  not  remain  long  on  the  battlefield,  meseems. 
Your  lovely  limbs  trembled  ere  ever  ye  saw  the 
fray.  Truly  ye  would  never  have  returned  to  the 
glorious  home  of  the  gods  had  my  thunderbolt 
struck  you.  My  power  is  far  beyond  that  of  the 
other  gods.  Even  should  they  all  come  to  measure 
their  strength  against  mine,  and  if  I  stood  at  heaven’s 
gate  and  let  down  a  chain  to  earth  and  all  Olympus 
hung  to  the  chain,  ye  could  not  pull  me  down.  If 
I  but  raised  my  hand  ye  would  all  fly  up.  Even 
the  earth  and  sea  I  would  draw  up,  and  if  I  should 
wind  the  chain  around  the  peaked  top  of  Olympus, 
the  whole  globe  would  dangle  in  space.” 


[61] 


ACHILLES 


Meanwhile  night  had  fallen,  which  put  a  stop 
to  further  strife.  Hector  retired  to  the  middle  of 
the  field  and  gave  orders  that  the  whole  army  should 
,  remain  in  camp  lighting  watchfires  everywhere,  so 
that  the  Greeks  might  not  board  their  ships  unseen 
and  steal  away.  The  old  men  and  boys  were  to 
watch  the  city  gates  to  guard  against  surprise. 


[62] 


Chapter  VII 

Agamemnon  Advises  Flight  —  Council  of  the 
Princes  —  A  Deputation  is  Sent  to  Achilles 

FEAR  and  unrest  prevailed  in  the  camp  by  the 
ships,  and  even  Agamemnon  was  no  longer 
confident.  He  quietly  called  the  chieftains 
to  a  council  of  war.  “Friends,”  he  said,  “I  perceive 
that  Jupiter  is  not  inclined  to  fulfil  the  promise  of 
his  omens  and  no  longer  desires  that  I  take  Troy 
and  lead  ye  home  laden  with  booty.  He  has  already 
destroyed  many  of  us  and  our  misery  grows  greater 
day  by  day.  Surely  he  is  but  making  sport  of  us. 
Therefore  let  us  launch  our  ships  and  return  home, 
saving  at  least  those  of  us  who  are  left.” 

For  a  while  the  princes  were  silent.  Then  Dio- 
medes  sprang  up  and  spake:  “Do  not  be  angry, 
O  King,  if  I  disagree  with  thee.  It  seems  to  me  thou 
art  faint-hearted,  for  none  of  us  has  given  up  hope. 
Truly  the  gods  do  not  give  everything  to  one  man, 
and  Jupiter  has  made  thee  a  powerful  king;  but 
valor,  the  flower  of  manly  virtues,  he  has  denied 
thee.  If  thou  art  so  anxious  to  return,  very  good; 
then  go.  The  way  is  open  and  the  ships  are  ready. 
But  the  rest  of  us  will  remain  until  we  have  destroyed 

[63] 


ACHILLES 


\ 


Priam’s  fortress.  And  if  all  others  should  flee,  I 
would  remain  with  my  friend  Sthenelus,  for  it  is  the 
gods  who  have  brought  us  hither.” 

All  the  warriors  applauded  this,  and  when  Nestor 
had  praised  Diomedes’  words,  there  was  no  further 
talk  of  retreat.  The  venerable  man  now  counselled 
that  the  walls  should  be  carefully  guarded  and  that 
watchfires  should  be  lighted  everywhere.  He  signed 
to  Agamemnon  to  invite  the  friends  into  his  tent, 
offer  them  refreshment,  learn  each  one’s  opinion, 
and  to  follow  the  best. 

Nestor  was  the  first  to  speak.  “  Great  Atride,” 
he  began,  “if  thou  wilt  consider  when  it  was  the 
gods  began  to  compass  our  ruin,  thou  wilt  admit 
that  our  misfortunes  began  on  the  day  when  thou 
didst  unjustly  insult  and  abuse,  to  our  great  sorrow, 
that  most  valiant  man  whom  even  the  immortals  have 
honored.  We  were  all  displeased  and  thou  knowest 
how  I  tried  to  dissuade  thee.  I  think  that  even  now 
we  had  better  seek  to  conciliate  the  angry  man  with 
flattering  words  and  gifts.” 

“Honored  Nestor,”  answered  Agamemnon,  “I  will 
not  deny  that  I  was  in  the  wrong.  It  is  true  a  single 
man,  if  chosen  by  the  gods,  is  equal  in  might  to  an 
army.  But  having  offended  I  will  gladly  make 
amends  and  offer  him  every  atonement.  I  will  give 
him  rich  gifts  and  he  shall  have,  besides,  the  maiden 
over  whom  we  quarrelled.  How  glad  I  would  have 
been  to  return  her  as  soon  as  my  rage  had  cooled. 
If  Jupiter  will  but  grant  me  the  good  fortune  to 
destroy  Priam’s  mighty  fortress,  Achilles’  vessel 

[64] 


AGAMEMNON  ADVISES  FLIGHT 


shall  be  heaped  up  with  gold  and  silver  and  he  may 
select  twenty  Trojan  women  for  himself,  the  fairest 
after  Helen.  And  when  we  return  to  Argos  I  will 
refuse  him  none  of  my  daughters,  should  he  wish 
to  become  my  son-in-law,  and  will  present  him  with 
seven  of  my  most  populous  cities  as  a  wedding  gift. 
Thus  will  I  honor  him  if  he  be  willing  to  forget.” 

To  this  Nestor  answered:  “Son  of  Atreus,  thou 
dost  offer  princely  gifts  which  might  well  propitiate 
the  proudest.  Let  us  send  messengers  to  him. 
Let  them  be  Ulysses  and  Ajax  and  the  venerable 
Phoenix,  whom  his  father  Peleus  sent  hither  as  his 
companion  and  friend.  Let  the  heralds,  Hodius 
and  Eurybates,  accompany  them.” 

The  encampment  of  the  Myrmidons  was  on  the 
seashore  and  they  found  Achilles  in  his  tent,  apart 
from  the  others,  playing  the  harp  and  singing  of 
heroic  deeds.  His  good  friend  and  comrade,  Patro- 
clus,  sat  opposite  him  listening.  Ajax  and  Ulysses 
entered  first  and  Achilles  immediately  put  down  his 
harp  and  came  towards  them.  Patroclus  also  arose 
to  welcome  his  old  comrades. 

“Ye  are  heartily  welcome,  old  friends,”  began 
Achilles,  “for  I  am  not  angry  with  you.  Sit  on 
these  cushions  and,  Patroclus,  bring  a  tankard  and 
mix  the  wine,  for  we  have  honored  guests  here.” 

After  they  had  eaten  and  poured  out  a  libation 
to  the  gods,  Ulysses  took  the  goblet  and  drank  to 
Achilles  with  a  hearty  handclasp.  “Greeting  to 
thee,  Pelide,”  he  began.  “It  is  not  food  and  drink 
we  crave.  But  we  are  troubled  that  thou  art  not 

[65] 


ACH I LLES 


on  the  battlefield.  The  Trojans  have  pushed  for¬ 
ward  to  the  ships  and  nothing  stops  them.  Jupiter 
has  sent  fiery  tokens  to  encourage  them  and  the 
invincible  Hector  is  hard  upon  us  with  murder  in 
his  eye.  Already  he  has  threatened  to  burn  the 
ships.  Even  at  night  he  does  not  retire,  but  en¬ 
camps  on  the  open  field  and  the  whole  plain  is 
illumined  by  his  campfires.  No  doubt  he  is  now 
eagerly  awaiting  daybreak  to  destroy  us,  for  he 
fears  neither  gods  nor  men. 

“Hear  what  Agamemnon  offers  thee  —  gifts  so 
costly  that  they  would  suffice  to  make  any  man  rich 
and  powerful.  Ten  pounds  of  gold  will  he  give  thee, 
and  seven  new  tripods,  with  twenty  polished  basins, 
besides  twelve  magnificent  horses  and  seven  Lesbian 
slave  women  accompanying  Briseus’  daughter.  And 
when  we  shall  have  conquered  Priam’s  city,  thou 
shalt  heap  thy  ship  with  gold  and  bronze  and  take 
twenty  of  Troy’s  fairest  women  for  thyself.  And 
when  we  return  to  blessed  Argos  thou  shalt  be  his 
son-in-law  and  he  will  honor  thee  as  his  own  son. 
But  if  thy  hatred  of  Atreus’  son  is  so  great  that  thou 
canst  not  forgive  him,  then  consider  the  dire  need 
of  the  Achaian  people,  who  are  ready  to  pay  thee 
honor  like  a  god.  Truly  thou  shalt  earn  great  glory.” 

Achilles  answered  him:  “Noble  son  of  Laertes, 
let  me  open  my  heart  to  thee  frankly.  Neither 
Agamemnon  nor  any  other  Greek  can  move  me  to 
fight  again  for  this  ungrateful  people.  The  coward 
and  the  hero  enjoy  equal  reputation  among  you. 
Why  should  I  risk  my  life  for  others?  As  the  swallow 

[66] 


V 


AGAMEMNON  ADVISES  FLIGHT 


feeds  its  young  with  the  morsels  which  it  denies 
itself,  thus  I  have  spent  my  sweat  and  blood  these 
many  days  for  the  ungrateful  Achaian  people;  have 
watched  through  many  a  restless  night,  fought  brave 
men,  burning  their  houses  and  stealing  away  their 
women  and  children.  I  have  destroyed  twelve 
populous  cities  in  Troy  by  sea  and  eleven  by  land 
and  always  delivered  the  spoils  up  to  Agamemnon. 
He  remained  quietly  at  the  ships  and  took  my 
plunder  gladly,  keeping  always  the  greater  part  for 
himself.  Although  each  chieftain  received  a  princely 
gift,  he  took  mine  from  me  —  the  lovely  woman 
who  was  dear  to  me  as  a  spouse. 

“Why  did  we  accompany  him  hither?  Was  it  not 
for  the  sake  of  beauteous  Helen?  Do  we  not  love 
our  women  even  as  he?  Let  him  leave  me  in  peace 
and  take  counsel  with  thee,  Ulysses,  and  with  the 
other  chieftains.  For  Hector  shall  never  again 
meet  me  in  battle.  To-morrow  I  shall  launch  my 
ships,  make  offerings  to  the  gods,  and  if  thou  wilt 
take  notice,  friend,  thou  shalt  see  my  ships  at  dawn, 
floating  upon  the  Hellespont.  If  Neptune  favors 
me  I  may  reach  my  native  Phthia  on  the  third  day. 
There  I  have  riches  enough,  so  that  I  shall  not  need 
the  gifts  of  the  haughty  king.  No,  should  he  offer 
me  twenty  times  as  much,  and  even  a  city  like  unto 
the  Egyptian  Thebes,  which,  it  is  said,  has  one 
hundred  gates  out  of  each  of  which  issue  two  hundred 
men  with  horses  and  chariots  in  time  of  war,  even 
then  he  could  not  persuade  me  until  he  had  atoned 
for  his  insult. 


[67] 


ACHILLES 


“Let  him  find  another  husband,  who  is  nobler 
and  more  powerful  than  I,  for  his  daughter.  Should 
I  reach  home  safely,  my  father  will  choose  me  a 
noble  consort,  for  there  are  many  beautiful  Achaian 
maidens  who  are  not  wanting  in  rich  dowries.  I 
long  for  Phthia  and  already  I  foretaste  the  joys  of 
reigning  over  my  father’s  good  subjects  and  enjoying 
a  life  of  plentiful  ease  by  the  side  of  a  gentle  spouse. 
Life  is  worth  more  than  all  Agamemnon’s  treasures, 
and  once  lost  can  never  be  regained. 

“Dost  know  what  fate  my  goddess  mother  hath 
revealed  to  me?  Either  I  die  young  upon  the  battle¬ 
field  and  my  name  shall  be  imperishable  upon  earth, 
or  I  shall  live  to  a  great  age  without  renown.  Let 
it  be  as  I  have  said,  and  if  ye  would  have  a  word  of 
advice  from  me,  it  is  this:  ‘Sail  away  before  Hector 
burns  your  ships,  for  ye  will  never  conquer  Troy.’ 
Go,  friends,  and  take  this  message  to  the  Greeks. 
But,  Phoenix,  stay  and  return  with  me  to  our  native 
land,  if  so  it  pleaseth  thee;  for  I  would  not  compel 
thee.” 

They  were  all  silent  until  the  gray-haired  Phoenix 
began  to  speak.  “  If  thou  hast  determined  to  return, 
noble  Achilles,  how  can  I  part  from  thee,  my  son, 
for  thy  father  confided  thee  to  my  care?  Thy 
splendid  deeds  have  made  me  proud  and  happy; 
but  now,  forgive  me,  godlike  Achilles,  now  thy 
obstinate  and  unreasonable  behavior  grieves  me. 
Calm  thy  rage.  A  gentle  disposition  well  becomes 
the  hero,  and  even  the  anger  of  the  gods  can  be 
placated.  How  often  have  we  seen  them  appeased 
[68] 


AGAMEMNON  ADVISES  FLIGHT 


by  sacrifices  and  penitential  prayers.  Yea,  woe  unto 
him  who  listens  not  to  repentant  supplication  and 
who  hardens  his  heart  against  the  enemy  who  is 
ready  to  make  atonement.  Behold  what  gifts 
Agamemnon  offers  to  win  thee.  What  is  the  wrong 
thou  hast  suffered  in  comparison  with  this  great 
honor?  The  ancient  heroes  of  whom  our  fathers 
tell  certainly  were  subject  to  fits  of  anger,  but  they 
also  allowed  themselves  to  be  conciliated.” 

“Phoenix,  honored  sire,”  answered  Achilles,  “do 
not  disturb  my  soul  with  lamentations;  rather  as 
my  friend  shouldst  thou  hate  him  who  hath  wronged 
me.  But  now  repose  thyself.  As  soon  as  dawn 
appears  we  will  take  counsel  whether  to  go  or  stay.” 
With  a  secret  sign  he  bade  Patroclus  prepare  a  soft 
couch  for  Phoenix. 

Hastily  Ajax  arose,  saying:  “Let  us  be  going, 
for  we  can  scarce  expect  to  persuade  this  hard-hearted 
man,  and  our  friends  are  awaiting  us  anxiously. 
Cruel  man,  to  cause  all  thy  friends  to  suffer  for  one. 
How  oft  have  anger  and  revenge  for-  a  murdered 
brother  been  forgotten  when  the  murderer  has 
offered  gifts  and  tokens  of  repentance.  But  thou 
hast  a  stony  and  implacable  heart  in  thy  bosom, 
and  all  this  on  account  of  a  girl.  Oh  be  persuaded! 
We  have  come  here  as  thy  old  friends.” 

“Ajax,  godlike  son  of  Telamon,”  answered  Achilles, 
“thou  hast  read  my  soul.  But  my  heart  is  full  of 
bitterness  when  I  think  of  the  man  who  treated 
me  so  vilely  before  the  Argives.  Go  and  bear  him 
the  message.  I  will  not  take  up  arms  until  the 

[69] 


ACHILLES 


firebrands  of  the  Trojans  fall  upon  my  own  ships. 
Terrible  as  he  is,  I  think  Hector  will  not  venture 
near  my  tents.”  Perceiving  that  their  eloquence 
was  unavailing,  the  ambassadors  returned  to  Aga¬ 
memnon’s  tent.  Phoenix,  however,  remained  with 
Achilles. 

The  Greek  princes  were  much  cast  down  at  the 
answer  to  their  mission.  Only  Diomedes  was  able 
to  keep  up  their  courage  by  his  unshakable  confi¬ 
dence.  “Atreus’  son,”  he  cried,  “would  thou  hadst 
never  implored  help  of  the  Pelide  or  offered  him  rich 
presents.  He  was  proud  enough  before.  Let  him 
go  or  come;  he  will  take  up  his  lance  as  soon  as  his 
heart  speaks.  But  do  thou,  King  Agamemnon,  as 
soon  as  Eos’  rosy  fingers  paint  the  sky,  array  thine 
horsemen  and  thy  cohorts  in  front  of  the  ships  and 
place  thyself  at  the  front.  Let  us  now  to  rest,  for 
it  is  late  and  to-morrow  we  fight  for  our  lives.” 

All  agreed.  The  goblets  were  filled  once  more, 
a  libation  poured  out  to  the  gods,  and  then  they 
separated,  each  one  going  to  his  own  tent. 


[  7°  1 


Chapter  VIII 

Agamemnon  in  Battle  —  Many  of  the  Greeks  are 

Wounded 


MORNING  had  scarcely  dawned  when  Aga¬ 
memnon  called  all  to  arms,  appearing  in 
the  foremost  ranks  clad  in  his  most  splen¬ 
did  armor  and  determined  to  fight  more  heroically 
this  day  than  ever  before.  The  great  mass  of  foot- 
soldiers  pressed  forward  in  long  lines  shouting  their 
battle  cries,  the  war  chariots  containing  the  leaders 
following  after  them. 

At  last  the  two  armies  met  and  whole  ranks  of 
men  fell  like  grain  before  the  reaper’s  scythe.  For 
some  hours  each  side  held  its  own,  but  toward  noon 
the  Achaians  broke  through  the  enemy’s  lines  and 
forced  them  back.  As  soon  as  the  ranks  were  broken 
and  bodies  of  men  began  to  scatter  in  little  groups 
over  the  plain,  the  charioteers  had  room  for  action 
and  dashed  forward  to  terrorize  the  foot-soldiers. 

Agamemnon  was  among  the  foremost,  hurling 
his  deadly  lance  continually  at  the  Trojan  princes. 
Two  young  and  beautiful  sons  of  Priam,  both  in  one 
chariot,  fell  before  him,  and  he  took  their  accoutre¬ 
ments  and  horses.  Next  two  sons  of  Antimachus 

[71  ] 


ACHILLES 


came  his  way  and  received  no  quarter  at  his  hands. 
He  stood  with  bloody  arm  uplifted,  swinging  his 
lance,  ready  to  strike  down  any  who  approached 
him.  The  Trojans  fled  in  multitudes  at  the  sound 
of  his  lionlike  voice,  and  amid  the  wild  confusion 
one  could  see  frightened  horses,  with  empty  chariots 
trailing  behind  them,  galloping  back  toward  the  city. 
Agamemnon  and  the  other  chieftains  were  relentlessly 
pursuing  the  flying  Trojans,  and  as  a  lion  following 
a  herd  of  cattle  will  fasten  his  cruel  claws  into  the 
necks  of  those  which  fall  behind,  thus  the  Achaians 
struck  down  many  a  fleeing  warrior. 

It  was  now  Hector’s  care  to  stop  the  rout  and 
bring  order  into  the  ranks  once  more  at  the  city 
gates.  He  implored,  he  admonished,  he  scolded 
and  threatened,  and  thus  drove  them  back  again 
after  a  brief  rest.  Shamed  by  his  words,  the  young 
princes  sought  out  the  most  dangerous  antagonists 
to  show  their  valor.  Iphidamas,  son  of  Antenor, 
was  even  anxious  to  contend  with  Agamemnon 
himself,  who,  however,  saw  him  coming  and  was 
the  first  to  cast  his  lance.  But  the  youth  dodged 
the  missile  and  ran  quickly  at  him  with  his  own  spear 
and  would  surely  have  run  him  through  had  the 
brazen  coat  not  bent  the  point  of  the  weapon  and 
broken  the  force  of  the  blow.  Agamemnon  seized 
hold  of  the  youth’s  lance  with  his  powerful  left  hand 
and  forced  both  him  and  it  down,  while,  with  a 
sudden  blow  of  his  sword,  he  cut  off  the  youth’s 
head.  A  servant  soon  stripped  him  and  carried  off 
the  armor.  - 

[72] 


AGAMEMNON  IN  BATTLE 


Koon,  Antenor’s  second  son,  who  had  seen  his 
brother’s  fall,  called  some  of  his  companions  together 
to  avenge  him.  They  approached  Agamemnon 
unobserved  and  Koon  cast  his  spear,  which  struck 
the  hero’s  arm,  wounding  him  so  that  the  warm 
blood  spurted  forth.  The  youth  was  triumphant, 
for  although  Agamemnon  did  not  fall,  he  saw  him 
stagger  backward.  He  wished  to  make  use  of  this 
moment  to  carry  off  his  brother’s  body,  but  as  he 
was  bending  over  it,  Agamemnon’s  spear  entered 
his  side,  and  before  he  could  recover  himself  Aga¬ 
memnon  had  sprung  upon  him  and  cut  off  his  head. 
The  hero  then  turned  away  and  attacked  another 
body  of  the  enemy,  slaying  many.  As  long  as  the 
warm  blood  continued  to  gush  out  he  did  not  notice 
his  wound,  but  when  it  began  to  dry,  he  could  no 
longer  endure  the  pain  and  was  obliged  to  retire  from 
the  field.  He  mounted  his  chariot,  admonishing  the 
Achaians  once  more  to  fight  bravely,  and  then  drove 
rapidly  away  to  his  tent  to  have  his  wound  dressed. 

His  departure  revived  the  sinking  courage  of  the 
Trojans.  Hector  pressed  forward  and  the  Achaians, 
abandoned  by  their  courageous  leader,  turned  to 
flee,  as  the  Trojans  had  done  before.  The  young 
princes  sought  to  measure  their  strength  against 
Hector,  but  only  paid  for  their  temerity  with  their 
lives.  Seeing  this,  Ulysses’  heart  burned  with  rage. 
He  called  Diomedes  and  said:  “Son  of  Tydeus,  let 
us  fight  together  against  that  terrible  man.  It 
would  be  a  shame  should  plumed  Hector  take  our 
great  ships  from  us.” 


[73] 


ACHILLES 


“Gladly  will  I  tarry  here,”  answered  his  friend 
surlily;  “but  much  good  will  it  do  us,  for  Jove,  the 
Thunderer,  does  not  intend  the  victory  for  us,  but 
for  the  Trojans.”  However,  they  set  forth  together 
and  plunged  amongst  the  swarms  of  soldiers  like 
two  raging  lions,  driving  them  backward,  as  waves 
are  whipped  by  the  wind.  Hector  saw  this  from 
afar  and  quick  as  a  flash  he  bore  down  upon  them  in 
his  chariot,  sprang  to  earth,  and  met  the  heroes  on 
foot. 

“Look,”  cried  Diomedes  to  Ulysses  when  he  saw 
him;  “there  cometh  our  destruction.  But  let  us 
stand  firm,  we  v^ill  not  flee.” 

They  stood  awaiting  him  with  their  lances  in 
position,  and  at  the  moment  when  Hector  emerged 
from  the  crowd  Diomedes’  spear  struck  his  helmet 
with  such  force  that  he  was  thrown  stunned  to  the 
ground.  But  the  weapon  had  not  wounded  him, 
for  his  iron  helmet  was  not  broken,  and  before 
Diomedes  had  time  to  rush  upon  him  with  his  sword, 
Hector  had  jumped  up  and  plunged  back  into  the 
crowd.  Ulysses’  lance  had  missed  the  mark,  and 
before  the  two  had  recovered  their  weapons  Hector 
was  safely  on  his  chariot.  Diomedes  stamped  his 
foot  with  rage.  He  now  set  upon  the  enemy  more 
murderously  than  ever,  and  as  he  drove  them  back 
and  was  nearing  the  tomb  of  the  old  Trojan  King 
Ilus,  he  was  met  by  Paris,  who  stayed  his  mad 
impetuosity.  Hiding  behind  a  pillar  of  the  tomb, 
he  let  fly  one  of  his  never-failing  arrows,  which 
struck  Diomedes,  pinning  his  foot  to  the  ground. 

[74] 


AGAMEMNON  IN  BATTLE 


He  saw  the  hero  falter  and  stand  still  and  sprang 
from  his  hiding  place  crying  in  triumph:  “Ha!  it 
was  a  good  shot.  But  how  gladly  would  I  have 
pierced  a  vital  part  and  taken  thy  life ! 

“Miserable  coward !”  roared  Diomedes.  “Hadst 
thou  met  me  in  the  open  thy  bow  and  arrow  had 
helped  thee  little.  And  now  thou  boastest  as  though 
thou  hadst  conquered  me,  and  it  is  but  a  scratch. 
It  is  as  though  a  mosquito  had  stung  me.  Woe 
unto  thee  when  I  catch  thee!”  However,  the  wound 
was  troublesome  enough,  for  he  could  not  stand  on 
his  foot,  and  Paris  would  perhaps  have  ventured  to 
shoot  a  second  arrow,  if  Ulysses  had  not  come  up  in 
the  nick  of  time.  He  placed  himself  in  front  of  his 
friend  and  covered  him  with  his  shield,  while  Diome¬ 
des  sat  on  the  ground  and  drew  the  arrow  out  of  his 
foot,  which  caused  him  sharp  pain.  He  then  called 
for  his  charioteer  and  drove  back  to  the  ships,  his 
heart  full  of  bitterness. 

Ulysses  remained  behind  alone,  for  his  companions 
had  retreated  in  terror,  and  now  he  found  himself 
suddenly  surrounded  by  the  Trojans.  He  could  not 
escape  and  resolved  to  sell  his  life  dearly  with  the 
blood  of  his  enemies.  He  met  their  attack  like  a 
wild  boar  at  bay,  and  so  savage  was  his  onslaught 
that  the  enemy,  surprised,  stood  still  and  none 
dared  come  near  him.  But  when  he  had  stabbed 
Charops,  the  noble  son  of  Hippasus,  his  brother 
Socus,  full  of  grief  and  anger,  stepped  boldly  for¬ 
ward  to  avenge  him,  crying:  “Murderous  Ulysses, 
either  thou  shalt  boast  that  thou  hast  slain  both  of 

[7Sl 


ACHILLES 


Hippasus’  sons  or  thou  shalt  die  by  my  hand!’’ 
With  this  he  threw  himself  upon  Ulysses  with  his 
spear  and  did  actually  pierce  the  shield  and  coat  of 
mail,  tearing  the  flesh  and  causing  him  to  start  back. 
But  when  Ulysses  felt  that  the  wound  was  not 
mortal,  he  quickly  hurled  his  own  lance,  crying: 
“Miserable  man,  thou  too  art  destined  to  fall  this 
day  by  my  hand!”  Socus  shrieked  aloud,  for  the 
weapon  had  pierced  clean  through  his  breast. 

On  the  other  side  of  the  battlefield  the  fighting 
was  equally  fierce.  Hector  and  Paris  were  busy 
with  spear  and  bow.  Paris  wounded  the  venerable 
Machaon,  a  good  soldier  and  much  prized  for  his 
surgical  skill,  for  he  had  saved  many  lives.  There¬ 
fore  his  friends  were  anxious  about  him  and  Nestor 
lifted  him  into  his  chariot  and  drove  quickly  away 
with  him  to  camp.  There  they  dismounted  to 
refresh  themselves  in  the  cool  breeze  from  the  sea 
and  to  dry  their  damp  clothing.  Then  they  entered 
Nestor’s  tent,  where  he  bound  up  his  friend’s  wound 
and  gave  him  food.  While  they  were  eating  Patro- 
clus  entered  the  tent.  Achilles  had  sent  him  to 
inquire  who  the  wounded  man  was  whom  he  had 
seen  brought  in  by  Nestor’s  chariot.  For  Achilles 
was  accustomed,  when  the  Greeks  were  fighting,  to 
station  himself  on  the  high  deck  of  his  vessel  to 
watch  the  fray,  not  without  regrets  that  he  was 
condemned  to  idleness;  often  his  hand  would  grasp 
his  sword  involuntarily.  His  joy  over  the  overthrow 
of  the  Achaians  was  the  sweetest  revenge  he  had  for 
his  wounded  pride. 

[76] 


AGAMEMNON  IN  BATTLE 


“Ah,  here  is  Patroclus,”  cried  Nestor.  “Enter, 
friend,  and  sit  down  with  us.  I  have  not  seen  thee 
for  a  long  time.” 

“Do  not  press  me,  venerable  sir,”  answered 
Patroclus.  “I  may  not  remain,  for  I  must  take  the 
tidings  to  Achilles  for  which  he  has  sent  me,  and 
now  that  I  have  seen  Machaon  I  must  away.  Thou 
well  knowest  how  impatient  he  is.” 

But  Nestor  continued:  “We  thought  that  Achilles 
was  no  longer  interested  in  our  fate.  And  hast 
thou,  his  friend  and  companion,  no  influence  with 
him?  Canst  thou  not  win  him  with  persuasive 
words  and  tame  his  proud  heart?  That  was  what 
thy  good  father  expected.”  Patroclus  was  moved 
by  his  words,  and  promising  to  do  what  he  could, 
took  his  leave. 

Once  more  the  Achaians  were  obliged  to  take 
refuge  behind  the  walls  of  the  camp.  Hector,  fol¬ 
lowed  by  the  victorious  Trojans,  drove  all  before 
him.  When  the  greater  part  of  the  Achaians  had 
reached  the  shelter  of  the  gate,  Hector  gave  orders 
that  all  the  charioteers  should  leave  their  chariots 
and  lead  their  bands  on  foot  across  the  moat,  for  he 
was  determined  to  climb  or  tear  down  the  flimsy 
walls.  Hector  was  successful,  although  there  was 
a  fearful  struggle  at  the  wall.  The  Achaians  de¬ 
fended  their  last  stand  with  desperate  courage, 
while  the  Trojans  were  just  as  determined  to  accom¬ 
plish  their  purpose  of  driving  the  enemy  from  their 
coasts  and  burning  their  ships  that  day. 

Thus  far  Jupiter  seemed  to  aid  the  Trojans,  for  a 

[77] 


ACHILLES 


terrible  gale  arose  which  blinded  the  eyes  of  the 
Achaians  with  dust,  though  they  still  fought  man¬ 
fully  on  and  Hector  was  not  able  to  accomplish  his 
purpose.  Two  Lycian  youths,  Sarpedon  and  Glau- 
cus,  met  outside  the  wall,  resolved  to  shed  glory 
upon  their  people  by  their  bravery  and  enterprise. 
They  sought  to  break  down  the  wall  at  a  spot  de¬ 
fended  by  Menestheus,  and  their  first  onslaught 
was  so  savage  that  the  Greek  looked  about  him  for 
help.  He  sent  a  messenger  to  Ajax  and  Teucer  to 
come  quickly  to  his  aid,  and  they  came  running  up 
with  spear  and  bow.  Ajax  threw  a  stone  which 
killed  Sarpedon’s  attendant,  who  was  already  on 
top  of  the  wall.  Next  Glaucus  climbed  up,  but 
received  Teucer’s  arrow  in  his  arm,  which  incapaci¬ 
tated  him  for  further  fighting.  He  got  down  very 
quietly,  so  that  the  Achaians  should  not  observe 
his  misfortune,  pausing  to  cast  one  more  spear, 
which  did  its  deadly  work.  Then  he  drove  back 
to  the  city. 

At  last  Sarpedon  succeeded  in  making  the  first 
breach  in  the  top  of  the  breastworks,  and  under 
repeated  blows  the  rest  followed.  This  made  the 
wall  so  low  at  this  place  that  the  soldiers  could 
shoot  over  it,  and  here  the  hottest  fighting  now 
took  place.  It  was  impossible  to  move  Sarpedon 
from  his  position.  After  a  long  struggle  Hector 
came  up,  saw  the  breach,  and  cried  joyfully:  “For¬ 
ward,  ye  Trojan  horsemen,  break  through  the 
Argives’  wall  and  cast  burning  brands  into  the 
ships  1”  He  raised  a  mighty  stone  in  both  arms, 

[78] 


AGAMEMNON  IN  BATTLE 


and  although  it  was  so  heavy  that  two  of  the  strongest 
men  could  not  have  lifted  it  or  even  have  loaded  it 
on  a  wagon  with  crowbars,  Hector  bore  it  as  easily 
as  a  shepherd  might  carry  a  bundle  of  shorn  wool, 
and  with  feet  planted  firmly  wide  apart,  he  hurled 
it  with  such  force  against  the  gateway  that  the  bolts 
cracked,  the  hinges  gave  way,  and  the  gate  flew 
wide  open.  He  sprang  triumphantly  into  the  in- 
trenchments,  followed  by  the  shouting  Trojans. 
The  frightened  Achaians  hurried  away  to  defend 
their  ships.  The  cries  and  confusion  were  indescrib¬ 
able.  The  Achaians  were  in  despair.  Nothing 
remained  for  them  but  to  save  their  ships,  and 
placing  themselves  in  front  of  them  in  long  rows 
with  lances  set,  they  thus  awaited  the  final  onset 
of  the  Trojans. 

Each  now  forgot  his  own  distress  and  all  worked 
together,  and  soon  a  solid  chain  of  armed  men  sur¬ 
rounded  the  ships  like  a  wall.  Hector  himself,  like 
a  mighty  rock  which  falls  from  the  mountain  top 
and  plunges  from  ledge  to  ledge  until  it  rests  upon 
the  plain,  could  get  no  farther,  but  was  obliged  to 
pause  before  the  wall  of  lances.  He  tried  to  en¬ 
courage  his  men  by  promising  them  great  rewards. 
Now  they  believed  that  the  last  decisive  moment 
had  come  and  that  before  night  it  would  be  seen 
whether  the  gods  had  determined  on  the  destruction 
of  the  Achaians  or  of  Troy.  But  Jupiter  was  but 
favoring  the  Trojans  in  order  to  please  Achilles  and 
his  mother,  Thetis.  Fate  had  already  decreed  that 
Troy  was  to  fall,  and  even  the  gods  could  not  change 

[79] 


ACHILLES 


this  decision,  for  they  too  were  subject  to  the  laws  of 
iron  necessity.  As  soon  as  Agamemnon  had  been 
sufficiently  punished  and  Achilles  could  be  per¬ 
suaded  to  join  the  ranks  of  fighting  Achaians,  the 
destruction  of  the  mighty  city  was  to  be  expected. 

As  soon  as  the  Achaians  had  intrenched  themselves 
they  grew  bolder  and  began  a  fearless  attack. 
Idomeneus  charged  the  Trojans,  followed  by  his 
brave  Cretans.  As  the  hurricane  raises  dark  clouds 
of  dust  between  the  battle  lines,  thus  the  ironclad 
cohorts  moved  hurriedly  forward  and  threw  them¬ 
selves  on  a  party  of  the  enemy.  Idomeneus  himself 
sought  an  antagonist  among  the  princes,  and  now 
he  chanced  upon  Othryoneus,  who  had  just  joined 
the  Trojans  with  his  squadron  and  had  a  reputation 
for  great  bravery.  He  had  wooed  Priam’s  most 
beautiful  daughter,  not  with  the  customary  gifts, 
but  instead  had  promised  his  aid  in  driving  the 
Achaians  out  of  Asia.  Priam  had  given  his  word, 
and  the  young  hero  was  just  beginning  the  struggle 
for  the  lovely  prize  when  Idomeneus’  spear  put  a 
sudden  end  to  his  life. 

The  battle  raged  fiercest  on  the  right  side  of  the 
camp  where  Hector  was  fighting.  He  was  deter¬ 
mined,  in  spite  of  the  heroes  who  opposed  him,  to 
capture  and  burn  the  ships.  All  the  fury  of  war 
was  displayed  on  this  spot  —  rage,  despair,  revenge, 
wild  cries,  fear,  horror,  and  flight.  The  ground  was 
slippery  with  the  blood  of  the  fallen;  there  was  now 
no  time  to  remove  the  corpses  of  the  slain.  The 
Trojans  were  the  first  to  lose  courage.  Even  Hector 

[80] 


AGAMEMNON  IN  BATTLE 


dared  not  keep  his  post  where  Ajax,  Ulysses,  and 
Idomeneus  stood  together  like  a  wall,  but  sought 
out  weaker  adversaries  and  contented  himself  by 
answering  the  challenge  of  the  two  Ajaxes  with 
insults  and  boasts. 

“Why  dost  thou  seek  to  frighten  the  common 
soldiers ?”  called  the  elder  Ajax  to  him.  “Drive  us 
back  if  thou  canst!  Thou  wouldst  gladly  take  our 
ships,  wouldst  thou  not?  But  I  tell  thee  that  thy 
proud  Troy  shall  sooner  sink  into  ashes  than  our 
fleet,  and  thou  shalt  sooner  turn  thy  face  homeward 
in  flight  than  triumph  over  us.” 

At  this  moment  an  eagle  flew  high  over  the  heads 
of  the  Achaians  toward  the  right  and,  delighted 
with  the  omen,  they  had  confidence  in  Ajax’s  words. 
But  Hector  answered  him  defiantly:  “Miserable 
boaster,  what  foolishness  is  this!  Would  I  were  but 
as  certainly  a  son  of  Jupiter  as  that  to-day  will  bring 
destruction  upon  ye  all.  And  woe  to  thee  shouldst 
thou  stand  before  my  spear!  It  would  tear  thy 
delicate  body  and  give  thy  blood  to  the  dogs.”  He 
then  dashed  away  with  his  band  to  enter  the  battle 
at  another  point.  All  were  intimidated  where  he 
appeared,  and  the  battle  cries  of  the  Trojans  sur¬ 
rounding  him  rose  high  into  the  air. 


Chapter  IX 


Agamemnon  Consoled — The  Gods  Take  Part 
in  the  Strife  and  the  Trojans  are  Driven 
Back 


THE  Greek  heroes  who  had  been  wounded  on 
the  morning  of  this  unlucky  day  and  had 
been  obliged  to  retire  from  the  fight  had 
remained  in  their  tents  in  great  discouragement, 
caring  for  their  wounds.  Nestor  still  sat  with 
Machaon,  and  after  he  had  tended  him  and  given 
him  food  and  drink  he  arose  restlessly  and  said  to 
his  wounded  friend:  “My  dear  fellow,  let  me  go 
and  see  what  our  fortunes  are.  The  shouts  of  the 
warriors  seem  louder  at  the  wall.” 

He  took  a  shield  and  lance  and  went  out.  Alas, 
what  a  sight  met  his  eyes!  The  wall  was  half 
demolished,  the  gateway  shattered,  the  Trojans 
inside  the  intrenchments,  and  such  wild  confusion 
prevailed  that  one  could  not  tell  friend  from  foe. 
He  sighed  deeply  and  considered  for  a  moment 
whether  he  should  go  down  into  the  turmoil  or 
seek  Agamemnon  in  his  tent.  He  chose  the  latter 
course.  But  as  he  turned  in  the  direction  of  the 

[82] 


AGAMEMNON  CONSOLED 


kings’  ships,  the  wounded  lords,  Tydeus’  son  Dio- 
medes,  Ulysses,  and  Agamemnon,  came  toward  him 
with  slow  steps,  leaning  on  their  lances  and  sick 
with  wounds. 

“Nestor,  Neleus’  son,”  cried  Agamemnon,  “whence 
comest  thou  and  why  didst  thou  leave  the  field? 
Alas,  I  fear  that  all  will  come  to  pass  as  Hector  has 
threatened;  that  the  Trojans  will  not  rest  until  our 
ships  are  burned  and  our  people  destroyed.  The 
Achaians  hate  and  curse  me  as  Achilles  hates  me, 
for  it  is  I  who  have  led  them  into  this  misery.  No 
doubt  they  are  now  deserting  or  sitting  brooding 
beside  the  ships.” 

“What  has  been,  even  Jupiter  cannot  change,” 
answered  Nestor.  “But  let  us  consider  what  is 
still  to  be  done.” 

“Then  let  me  tell  thee  what  I  think,”  said  Aga¬ 
memnon.  “As  we  are  at  the  end  of  our  resources, 
my  advice  is  that  as  soon  as  it  is  dark  we  launch  our 
ships  and  sail  away  while  the  Trojans  are  asleep. 
Let  them  call  us  cowards!  It  is  better  to  escape 
thus  than  to  be  destroyed.” 

“What  words  are  these,  O  Atride,”  said  Ulysses, 
frowning.  “Thou  shouldst  have  led  an  army  of 
deserters  hither,  instead  of  commanding  men  like 
us,  who  have  been  taught  from  early  youth  to  support 
the  hardships  of  war  unto  death.  What?  Dost 
thou  really  intend  to  save  thyself  by  stealing  away 
like  a  thief  in  the  night?  Hush!  That  no  one  else 
may  hear  such  unbecoming  words!” 

Agamemnon  answered  him:  “Ulysses,  I  feel  thy 

[83]  ' 


ACHILLES 


stern  rebuke  deeply,  and  I  would  not  have  the 
Argives  launch  the  ships  against  their  will.  If 
anyone  can  give  better  counsel,  let  us  hear  it.” 

Now  Diomedes  began  to  speak.  “It  is  not  far 
to  seek  if  thou  wilt  listen  to  me.  I  am  indeed  the 
youngest  here,  but  as  well  born  as  any,  and  I  think 
Jupiter  hath  given  me  courage  and  strength  for 
manly  deeds.  My  advice,  then,  is  that  we  return 
to  the  battlefield,  not  to  fight,  for  our  wounds  prevent 
that,  but  in  order  to  encourage  the  others.” 

This  speech  pleased  all  and  they  followed  him 
straight  to  the  place  of  combat.  Just  as  they 
arrived  there  they  were  met  by  Poseidon  in  the 
figure  of  an  elderly  warrior,  who  grasped  the  right 
hand  of  the  ruler  and  said:  “Take  courage,  brave 
Atride,  the  immortal  gods  will  not  be  angry  with 
thee  forever.  Thou  shalt  surely  see  the  day  when 
the  Trojans  will  retreat  in  defeat  to  their  city  and 
their  heroes  fall  before  our  lance  thrusts.” 

With  these  words  the  old  man  returned  to  the 
fight  and  with  encouraging  words  spurred  on  the 
hesitating  soldiers  to  renewed  effort.  His  voice 
resounded  over  the  battlefield  like  the  shouting  of  a 
thousand  men  and  the  Achaians  obeyed  it.  The 
princes  gazed  after  him  in  astonishment,  for  his 
kingly  figure  was  unknown  to  them.  They  sus¬ 
pected  that  it  was  a  god  come  to  encourage  them. 
Through  hatred  of  the  Trojans,  Poseidon  was 
secretly  aiding  the  Achaians  contrary  to  the  express 
commands  of  Jupiter.  But  it  would  have  gone  hard 
with  him  if  the  son  of  Cronos,  who  was  looking 

[84] 


AGAMEMNON  CONSOLED 


down  on  the  battlefield  from  Mount  Ida,  had  dis¬ 
covered  him  at  once.  Juno  contrived  a  scheme  to 
prevent  this  for  a  while  at  least.  She  went  to 
Aphrodite  and  said  coaxingly:  “Wilt  thou  grant  me 
a  favor,  or  refuse  it  because  thou  art  resentful  of 
my  aiding  the  Achaians,  whilst  thou  art  for  the 
Trojans?” 

Aphrodite  graciously  answered:  “Mighty  Juno, 
speak.  What  dost  thou  desire?  If  I  can  grant  it 
I  will  do  so.” 

Then  Juno  said  cunningly:  “Give  me  thy  magic 
girdle  of  love  and  longing,  which  inclines  the  hearts 
of  gods  and  men  to  thee.  I  wish  to  visit  old  grand¬ 
father  Oceanus,  who  has  quarrelled  with  his  spouse 
Thetis,  and  try  if  I  may  not  reconcile  them.” 

“How  could  I  refuse  thee  my  help?”  answered 
the  goddess.  “Here,  take  it,  and  mayest  thou  be 
successful.” 

Smiling  happily,  Juno  took  the  magic  girdle  and 
hastened  to  her  chamber.  She  bathed  her  delicate 
body,  anointed  it  with  ambrosial  oil,  and  arranged 
her  hair  in  shining  ringlets.  She  then  put  on  the 
fine  long  robe  which  Athena  had  woven  for  her, 
closed  it  with  golden  clasps  on  her  breast,  and 
wound  the  magic  girdle  about  her  waist.  Beautiful 
earrings,  a  shimmering  veil,  and  golden  sandals 
completed  the  splendid  dress.  Juno  now  hastened 
over  the  heights  of  Olympus  and  across  the  mountains 
and  streams  of  earth  to  Lemnos,  where  she  found 
Sleep,  the  brother  of  Death.  He  was  indispensable 
to  her  in  carrying  out  the  trick  she  had  planned,  so 

[S5  ] 


ACHILLES 


she  took  him  graciously  by  the  hand  and  said: 
“Mighty  Sleep,  who  tamest  gods  and  men,  if  thou 
wouldst  ever  do  me  a  service,  do  it  now  and  I  shall 
be  forever  grateful.  My  son  Hephaestus  shall  fashion 
thee  an  indestructible  seat,  whose  cushions  are 
always  soft,  and  it  shall  be  shining  with  gold  and 
have  a  comfortable  footstool  for  thy  feet.” 

A  smile  like  a  ray  of  sunshine  lit  up  the  god’s  face. 
Nothing  could  have  tempted  him  more.  Yawning 
he  asked:  “What  dost  thou  want  of  me,  honored 
goddess?” 

“Come  with  me  and  put  the  father  of  the  gods  to 
sleep  for  a  short  time,”  she  said.  “And  to  make 
it  easier  for  thee,  I  will  beguile  him  with  sweet 
speeches.” 

“Thou  askest  a  hard  thing,”  answered  Sleep. 
“Anyone  else  I  would  dare  approach,  even  ever- 
flowing  old  Oceanus;  but  Jupiter,  the  Terrible,  I 
cannot  venture  near  unless  he  calls  for  me  himself. 
Only  remember  how  he  raged  the  time  I  deceived  him 
at  thy  behest,  when  thou  didst  pursue  his  dear  son 
Hercules  with  storms,  with  intent  to  imprison  him 
on  the  island  of  Kos.  All  Olympus  trembled  at  his 
wrath,  and  I  should  have  been  lost  had  Night  not 
protected  me  out  of  friendship.” 

Juno  replied:  “Dost  thou  suppose  the  father  of 
the  gods  cares  as  much  for  the  Trojans  as  he  did  for 
his  dear  son?  No  indeed!  As  thy  reward  I  promise 
thee  for  thy  wife  the  fairest  of  the  Graces,  whom 
thou  hast  so  long  desired.” 

“Then  swear  it,”  cried  Sleep,  overjoyed,  “that 

[86] 


AGAMEMNON  CONSOLED 


I  may  trust  thee,  and  I  will  do  thy  bidding  in¬ 
stantly.” 

The  goddess  touched  the  earth  with  one  hand 
and  the  sea  with  the  other  and  swore  by  the  River 
Styx  and  by  the  gods  of  the  underworld.  Then 
they  both  passed  over  the  sea  to  Phrygia.  Juno 
went  straight  up  Ida,  while  Sleep,  in  the  form  of 
a  nighthawk,  slowly  circled  about  the  mountain 
top  and  jhid  himself  in  the  branches  of  a  tall  pine 
tree. 

When  Jupiter  saw  his  consort  he  was  greatly 
astonished.  His  dear  wife  had  never  appeared  so 
lovely  to  him  before.  She  had  Juno’s  eyes,  but 
Aphrodites’  soulful  glance;  Juno’s  voice,  but  the 
words  seemed  to  come  from  the  heart  of  the  goddess 
of  love.  The  masterful,  rebellious  Juno,  become 
gentle,  kind,  tender,  and  modest,  so  surprised  him 
that  he  immediately  forgot  all  his  past  grievances 
against  her  and  gave  himself  up  to  the  sweet  delusion 
that  this  change  would  last  forever.  And  now  Juno 
became  so  confiding  and  affectionate  that  her  lord 
forgot  the  Trojans  and  in  looking  at  her  his  back  was 
turned  to  them,  so  that  he  could  not  see  his  dis¬ 
obedient  brother  Poseidon.  At  last  she  made  secret 
signs  to  the  bird  lurking  in  the  pine  branches  to 
encompass  the  happy  one  with  his  outspread  wings, 
and  he  was  soon  peacefully  at  rest.  Sleep  then 
flew  quickly  down  to  Poseidon  to  tell  him  that 
Jupiter  was  slumbering  and  that  it  was  now  time  to 
aid  the  Achaians  in  earnest. 

Then  the  sea  god  in  the  shape  of  an  old  warrior 

[§7] 


ACHILLES 


went  up  and  down  the  ranks  preaching  courage. 
Under  his  leadership  the  people  charged  forward 
like  a  hurricane  beating  against  a  forest.  Many 
men  fell,  most  of  them  Trojans.  Hector  knew  not 
that  a  god  was  opposing  him,  so  he  did  not  give  way 
and  still  expected  victory.  But  he  soon  met  his 
doom.  He  had  just  cast  his  lance  in  vain  at  Ajax, 
and  was  about  to  pick  up  a  stone,  when  Ajax  quickly 
hurled  a  great  piece  of  rock,  which  struck  the  hero 
under  his  shield  and  he  fell  back  breathless.  Shield 
and  stone  dropped  from  his  hands  and  he  tumbled 
over  in  the  sand.  Ajax  and  his  friends  were  about 
to  come  up  and  strip  him,  but  at  this  moment  the 
bravest  Trojan  princes,  .Eneas,  Polydamas,  Agenor, 
and  the  valiant  Lycians,  Sarpedon  and  Glaucus, 
surrounded  him,  all  covering  him  with  their  shields 
at  once,  until  some  of  the  servants  lifted  him  on 
their  shoulders  and  carried  him  to  his  chariot. 
When  the  chariot  crossed  the  ford  of  the  little  River 
Scamander  or  Xanthus,  the  friends  lifted  down  the 
moaning  and  still  unconscious  hero,  laid  him  on  the 
ground,  and  sprinkled  him  with  water.  He  revived, 
opened  his  eyes,  and  wanted  to  arise,  so  they  took 
hold  of  his  arms  and  lifted  him  to  a  kneeling  position. 
A  stream  of  dark  blood  burst  from  his  lips  and  he 
sank  into  unconsciousness  again. 

The  news  of  Hector’s  fall  was  greeted  with  loud 
rejoicing  in  the  Achaian  army.  Their  old  courage 
returned  and  Poseidon’s  presence  worked  wonders 
of  heroism.  The  Trojans  retreated  farther  and 
farther  and  few  of  the  leaders  fought  alone.  Victory 

[88] 


AGAMEMNON  CONSOLED 


now  inclined  toward  the  side  of  the  Achaians/  for 
Hector  lay  wounded  on  the  banks  of  the  Xanthus 
and  the  gods  no  longer  fought  for  Troy.  Thus  the 
Trojans  soon  found  themselves  again  near  the  city 
walls  and  even  forced  behind  them. 


[89] 


Chapter  X 

Jupiter  s  Message  to  Poseidon  —  The  Battle  for 

the  Ships 


JUPITER  awoke  and  rubbed  his  eyes.  His 
first  glance  sought  the  ships.  How  changed 
was  the  situation!  “Ha,  Juno,”  he  cried 
angrily,  “this  is  thy  work,  deceitful,  malicious 
woman!  So  that  was  the  meaning  of  thy  caresses, 
thy  friendliness  and  sweet  talk,  false  serpent.  Of 
what  use  is  it  to  chastise  thee?  Hast  thou. already 
forgotten  thy  punishment  when  thou  didst  send  a 
storm  to  drive  my  son  Hercules  into  imprisonment 
on  Kos  and  I  made  thee  swing  on  a  chain  twixt 
heaven  and  earth  with  an  anvil  fastened  to  each 
foot?  Suppose  that  now  I  were  to — ” 

“Heaven  and  Earth  are  my  witnesses,  anchl  will 
even  swear  it  by  the  Styx,  that  Poseidon  did  not  go 
into  the  battle  at  my  behest,”  said  the  affrighted 
goddess.  “I  do  not  know  whether  the  Achaians 
have  persuaded  him  to  it  or  his  own  heart.  Rather 
would  I  counsel  him  to  go  whithersoever  thou 
commandest.” 

The  father  of  gods  and  men  answered,  smiling 
grimly:  “If  thou  wert  of  my  mind,  regal  Juno, 

[90] 


JUPITER’S  MESSAGE 


Poseidon  would  certainly  soon  change  his  course. 
But  now  call  Iris  quickly  and  Apollo  of  the  bow,  that 
they  may  descend  and  command  Poseidon  to  leave 
the  battlefield  and  return  to  his  palace.” 

The  lily-armed  Juno  willingly  obeyed,  though 
she  still  meditated  mischief  in  her  heart.  She  drove 
quickly  to  high  Olympus,  where  she  found  the  im¬ 
mortals  in  the  banquet  hall.  Craftily  she  spoke  to 
them.  “It  is  uselses  to  seek  to  change  Jupiter’s 
decrees,”  she  said.  “Little  he  cares  for  us,  for  he 
feels  himself  high  above  us  all  in  strength  and  power. 
Only  just  now  I  saw  Ascalaphus,  the  beloved  son 
of  mighty  Mars,  slain  in  battle.” 

“Do  not  blame  me,  ye  dwellers  in  Olympus,  if  I 
go  to  avenge  the  death  of  my  son,”  wailed  Mars; 
“even  though  the  bolt  of  the  Thunderer  strike  me 
down.”  He  rushed  from  the  hall  and  donned  his 
shining  armor,  appearing  greater  and  more  terrible 
than  ever. 

Incalculable  mischief  would  have  followed  if 
Athena,  concerned  for  the  rest  of  the  gods,  had  not 
hurried  after  him  and  taken  his  helmet,  shield,  and 
lance  from  him  by  force.  “Imbecile,”  she  cried, 
“wouldst  thou  destroy  us  all?  Woe  unto  us  if  he 
should  see  thee,  the  terrible  Jupiter!  Thy  son  was 
but  a  mortal  and  other  noble  warriors  have  fallen; 
it  is  impossible  to  save  them  all  from  death.”  With 
these  words  she  forced  her  angry  brother  back  to  the 
throne  and  he  obediently  submitted  to  her  warning. 

Apollo  and  Iris  flew  quickly  down  to  the  green 
summit  of  Ida,  where  Jupiter  sat  enveloped  in  dark 

[91  ] 


ACHILLES 


-  j 

clouds.  Iris  he  sent  with  a  stern  message  to  Poseidon 
and  his  beloved  son  Apollo  to  Hector  to  strengthen 
him  with  his  divine  breath.  “Then  lead  him  into 
the  battle  once  more,”  said  Jupiter,  “and  aid  him 
thyself  to  drive  the  Achaians  on  board  their  ships. 
Take  the  terrible  aegis  in  thy  hand  and  shake  it, 
that  their  hearts  may  quake.”  . 

Iris  delivered  her  message  to  the  sea  god  and  he 
answered  it  defiantly.  “Powerful  as  he  is,  I  call 
that  tyrannical.  To  combat  my  will  —  mine,  who 
am  his  equal!  For  are  not  he  and  Pluto  and  I 
brothers,  and  were  not  the  upper  and  under  worlds 
divided  equally  between  us?  We  cast  lots;  air  fell 
to  him  and  water  to  me,  but  earth  and  sky  are  free 
to  us  all,  and  he  shall  not  stop  me  here.  Let  him 
rule  his  consort  and  his  sons  and  daughters.  What 
care  I  for  his  threats  or  commands!” 

Then  Iris  said  doubtfully:  “What,  dark-haired 
World-power!  Shall  I  take  Jupiter  thy  answer  in 
just  those  words,  or  wilt  thou  not  change  thy  mind? 
It  is  well  to  keep  the  peace  and  respect  is  always 
due  the  elder.” 

“Iris,  exquisite  goddess,”  answered  the  angry 
king,  “thou  speakest  sensibly  and  with  reason,  but 
it  was  righteous  anger  overcame  me,  for  no  brother 
should  rule  another.  Now  that  I  come  to  think  it 
over,  I  know  I  had  best  obey  him.  But  tell  him 
this  —  that  if,  contrary  to  the  wishes  of  all  the 
other  gods,  he  protects  Ilium’s  fortress  and  gives 
not  the  victory  to  the  Achaians,  he  may  expect  our 
eternal  enmity.” 

[92] 


JUPITER’S  MESSAGE 


He  spoke,  left  the  battlefield,  and  plunged  into 
the  sea.  Meanwhile  Apollo  had  appeared  to  Hector, 
saying:  “Be  comforted,  son  of  Priam,  for  Jupiter 
sends  me  to  save  thee.  I  am  Phoebus  Apollo,  who 
hath  so  often  protected  thee  and  thine.  Follow  me, 
that  we  may  scatter  the  Achaians.”  Thus  the  god 
encouraged  the  shepherd  of  the  people,  and  like  a 
colt  which  has  broken  its  halter  and  gallops  after 
the  other  horses  to  the  pasture,  he  hastened  into 
the  battle  turmoil.  The  reappearance  of  the  hero 
caused  astonishment  and  consternation  among  the 
enemy,  and  as  the  invisible  Apollo  shook  the  shield 
of  Jupiter,  the  mighty  segis,  fear  and  horror  took 
complete  possession  of  the  people,  and  turning  they 
fled  back  to  the  ships.  The  battle  raged  fiercer 
than  before,  and  many  brave  men  fell  there.  • 

Then  Hector  called  aloud:  “The  time  has  come, 
brave  Trojans,  to  board  the  ships.  Let  all  keep 
together.  Let  no  one  tarry  to  gather  booty,  and  if 
one  remains  behind,  he  shall  die  by  my  own  hand.” 
He  urged  his  horses  across  the  moat,  and  the  others 
followed  him  with  exultant  cries.  When  they 
reached  the  ships  they  paused  and  prayed  aloud  to 
the  gods  for  victory.  A  long  roll  of  thunder  presaged 
good  fortune,  and  with  redoubled  courage  they 
charged  forward.  Hector  tried  to  board  a  vessel, 
but  in  vain.  The  Achaians,  from  the  deck,  thrust 
back  everyone  who  made  the  attempt  with  their 
long  oars,  and  where  Hector  fought  there  were  always 
to  be  found  gathered  together  the  bravest  warriors. 
The  Trojans,  with  their  double-edged  lances,  fought 

[93] 


ACHILLES 


in  their  chariots,  but  the  Achaians,  from  the  high 
decks  of  their  dark  vessels,  used  long,  ironbound 
oars. 

While  the  battle  raged  between  the  wall  and  the 
ships  Patroclus  was  sitting  in  Eurypylus’  tent 
nursing  his  wounded  friend.  But  he  dared  not 
remain  long,  for  fear  of  arousing  Achilles’  anger. 
He  felt  that  he  must  see  how  his  friends  were  faring, 
and  his  heart  urged  him  to  persuade  Achilles  to  come 
to  the  rescue  of  the  Achaians  at  last.  He  left  the 
tent  and  gazed  with  horror  upon  the  dreadful  battle¬ 
ground.  He  saw  Hector  rush  forward  with  a  flaming 
torch  and  try  to  fire  a  ship,  but  the  Achaians  turned 
aside  the  fatal  missile.  Ajax  of  Salamis  stood  upon 
the  deck  and  thrust  down  with  his  lance  all  who  bore 
a  burning  brand.  Hector  aimed  his  javelin  at  him, 
but  it  struck  Lykophron,  who  stood  beside  him. 
Ajax  then  called  upon  Teucer:  “Look,  brother,  our 
friend  has  fallen  by  Hector’s  hand!  Where  is  thy 
avenging  arrow?” 

Teucer  hastily  climbed  up  with  his  bow  and  with 
the  first  arrow  struck  Klitus  from  his  chariot.  He 
then  selected  a  second  and  sharper  arrow  for  Hector 
and,  as  he  was  quite  near  to  him,  would  doubtless 
have  pierced  him  had  the  cord  of  his  bow  not  broken 
just  as  he  was  in  the  act  of  drawing  it.  “Woe  is 
me!”  he  cried.  “A  god  brings  all  our  attempts  to 
naught  and  must  have  broken  this  cord,  a  newly 
twisted  one,  which  I  put  on  this  morning.” 

Hector  had  seen  the  accident,  accepted  it  as  a 
favorable  omen,  and  cheered  on  his  men.  “Let 

[94] 


JUPITER’S  MESSAGE 


everyone  fight  with  all  his  might,  for  the  Olympian 
Jove  is  with  us.  And  if  ye  fall  it  shall  be  a  glorious 
death  for  the  women  and  children  of  Troy,  and 
surely  the  Trojans  shall  recompense  ye  as  soon  as 
the  Achaians  are  driven  away.” 

Where  Hector  rushed  in,  the  troops  huddled  to¬ 
gether  like  a  herd  of  sheep  before  a  wolf.  None 
dared  defend  himself,  but  bowed  his  head  in  terror, 
and  trembling,  received  his  deathblow  with  averted 
face.  The  hero’s  fluttering  plumes  were  like  a  lion’s 
mane  and  his  eyes  flashed  fury  under  his  dark  brows. 
Fear  and  shame  kept  the  Achaians  together.  They 
continually  encouraged  one  another.  Nestor  par¬ 
ticularly  besought  the  people  to  make  one  last 
attempt. 

Among  the  Achaian  leaders  the  most  notable 
courage  was  shown  by  the  Telamonian  Ajax.  He 
ran  from  one  ship  to  another  to  encourage  the  sol¬ 
diers,  who  could  scarcely  be  forced  to  make  another 
stand.  A  Trojan  brought  Hector  a  torch,  which  he 
threw  into  the  foremost  of  the  deserted  ships.  The 
sight  drove  the  Achaians  to  desperation.  They  all 
rushed  forward  to  defend  the  ship  and  a  horrible 
struggle  took  place.  Battle  axes,  swords,  and  lances 
hissed  through  the  air  and  much  blood  flowed. 
Hector  clung  to  the  ship  and  shouted:  “Bring  up 
the  firebrands!  Jupiter  has  given  us  the  day  and 
we  shall  certainly  take  the  ships.”  And  “fire!  fire!” 
echoed  through  the  entire  army,  so  that  all  the 
Achaians  trembled.  Ajax  himself  could  make  no 
headway,  but  standing  on  one  of  the  ships,  he  threw 

[9Sl 


A  C  H I UL  E  S 


lance  after  lance  at  everyone  he  saw  approaching 
with  fire.  His  voice  was  never  silent,  but  rose  con¬ 
tinually  above  the  din,  calling  to  his  people:  “ Friends, 
keep  up  your  courage  and  show  yourselves  men!  Is 
there  any  help  but  in  yourselves  or  is  there  another 
wall  behind  you?  Do  ye  know  of  other  ships,  if 
these  are  burned,  to  carry  you  over  the  sea?  Your 
deliverance  depends  solely  upon  yourselves !” 

Fruitless  zeal!  The  rattling  spears  of  the  enemy 
drove  them  to  flight  more  convincingly  than  the 
voice  of  the  lone  leader  to  the  attack.  Their  strength 
was  broken. 


[96] 


Chapter  XI 

Patroclus  Hastens  into  Battle  and  Scatters  the 
Trojans  —  Hector  and  Patroclus 


PROFOUNDLY  grieved  at  the  sad  fate  of  his 
comrades,  Patroclus  turned  from  the  bloody 
spectacle  and  hurried  to  Achilles’  tent. 
Hot  tears  were  rolling  down  his  cheeks  as  he  en¬ 
tered.  Achilles,  dismayed,  forgot  to  rebuke  him 
and  inquired  with  concern:  “Why  dost  thou  weep, 
Patroclus?  Speak,  tell  me  all!” 

Sighing  deeply,  Patroclus  replied:  “Son  of  Peleus, 
thou  mighty  hero  of  the  Achaians,  do  not  be  angry 
with  me  if  I  tell  thee  that  the  Achaians  are  suffering 
too  great  misery.  All  over  the  field  and  at  the  ships 
their  bravest  warriors  have  fallen,  and  but  few  of 
the  princes  remain  unharmed.  Diomedes  has  been 
shot  through  the  foot  and  Agamemnon  through  the 
arm;  Ulysses  is  wounded  in  the  side  and  Eurypylus 
received  an  arrow  in  his  thigh.  The  deserted 
soldiers  are  panic-stricken  and  thou,  obstinate  one, 
wilt  not  take  pity  on  them.  Cruel  man!  Thou 
art  so  brave  and  yet  thou  wilt  not  raise  thy  hand 
to  save  thy  despairing  friends.  May  a  god  never 
be  angry  with  me  as  thou  art  angry.  Surely  Peleus 
is  not  thy  father  nor  a  goddess  thy  mother.  The 

[97] 


ACHILLES 


dark  sea  depths  or  adamantine  rocks  must  have 
brought  thee  forth,  so  unfeeling  is  thy  heart.  Or  is 
it  that  thou  obeyest  some  secret  command  of  the 
gods  and  darest  not  take  part  in  the  battle?  Then, 
at  least,  send  me  and  give  me  thy  Myrmidons  that 
I  may  perchance  drive  back  the  Trojans  from  the 
ships.  Lend  me  thy  armor  that  the  Trojans,  de¬ 
ceived,  may  retreat  and  the  Achaian  warriors  take 
fresh  courage.” 

“No  behest  of  the  gods  restrains  me,”  replied 
Achilles,  “nor  is  it  my  purpose  to  be  angry  forever. 
As  soon  as  the  Trojans  approach  my  tents  and  ships, 
I  shall  gird  on  my  sword  and  spear,  and  woe  to  him 
whom  I  shall  meet!  But  until  then,  let  Agamemnon 
bitterly  repent  his  outrage  and  promise  expiatory 
sacrifices  to  all  the  gods.  But  I  shall  not  allow  the 
Trojans  the  pleasure  of  destroying  the  ships.  There¬ 
fore  go,  as  thou  desirest.  Lead  the  Myrmidons  into 
battle,  for  the  danger  is  great.  Diomedes  no  longer 
shakes  his  mighty  spear  and  I  do  not  hear  the 
hated  Agamemnon’s  valiant  battle  cry;  instead, 
Hector’s  lionlike  voice  penetrates  my  tent,  with  the 
loud  rejoicing  of  the  Trojans.  Take  my  resplendent 
armor,  but  listen  well  to  what  I  say.  Thou  mayest 
drive  the  Trojans  from  the  ships  and  back  to  the 
intrenchments,  but  pursue  them  no  farther.  Take 
care  not  to  allow  thyself  to  be  enticed  into  an  open 
battle,  nor  still  less  dare  to  storm  Troy’s  fortress 
without  me,  for  mine  must  be  the  glory,  that  the 
Achaians  may  learn  whom  they  have  insulted.” 

With  these  words  he  climbed  to  the  upper  deck 

[98] 


PATROCLUS  AND  HECTOR 


of  his  ship  to  reconnoitre.  And  how  horrified  he 
was  to  see  Protesilaus’  ship  in  flames,  Hector  still 
advancing,  and  the  Achaians  giving  way.  “Hurry, 
hurry,  Patroclus!”  he  cried  and  smote  his  thigh 
with  impatience.  “The  ships  are  already  burning! 
Put  on  the  armor  quickly,  while  I  gather  the  Myr¬ 
midons. ’’  There  were  more  than  two  thousand  of 
them,  splendid  warriors  of  great  strength  and  stature. 
At  their  leader’s  call  they  assembled  under  arms. 
Achilles  divided  them  into  five  companies,  to  each 
of  which  he  gave  a  leader  of  proven  courage  and 
experience.  Meanwhile  Patroclus  bade  Automedon 
bring  forth  Achilles’  chariot  and  horses,  with  a 
second  one  for  emergencies.  Then  he  put  on  the 
shining  armor,  placed  on  his  head  the  great  helmet 
with  its  crest  of  waving  horsehair,  and  took  two 
lances,  but  not  that  of  Achilles,  for  no  other  living 
mortal  could  wield  that. 

Thus  armed  he  sprang  into  the  chariot  beside 
Automedon,  who  was  waiting,  whip  in  hand.  Then 
Achilles  went  to  the  chest  which  his  mother  had 
given  him,  filled  with  cloths  and  warm  garments, 
and  took  out  of  it  a  precious  golden  goblet  from 
which  he  was  accustomed  to  make  sacrifice  to  the 
greatest  of  the  gods  alone.  He  dipped  it  in  the  sea, 
washed  his  hands,'  then  filled  the  goblet  with  clear 
wine,  and  with  it  in  his  hands  went  to  the  door  of 
his  tent.  “Father  Jupiter,  ruler  of  the  world,”  he 
prayed,  while  he  poured  the  first  drops  on  the  ground 
in  honor  of  the  god,  “hear  me  now  as  thou  didst 
hear  me  when  I  was  honored  before  the  Achaians. 

[99] 


ACHILLES 


Grant  that  my  friend  may  return  to  me  covered 
with  glory,  and  fill  his  heart  and  the  hearts  of  his 
companions  with  courage,  that  they  may  make  an 
end  of  the  Trojans  at  the  ships,  and  that  Hector 
may  learn  that  Patroclus  knows  how  to  order  the 
battle  even  if  I  am  not  with  him.” 

The  appearance  of  Patroclus  and  his  followers 
was  like  sunshine  after  a  shower  to  the  Achaians. 
The  Trojans  were  frightened,  for  they  thought  that 
Achilles  had  come  forth  again,  and  even  without 
him  the  advent  of  two  thousand  fresh  warriors  was 
matter  enough  for  concern.  When  Achilles’  band 
made  a  dash  for  Protesilaus’  burning  ship,  not  a 
Trojan  stood  his  ground.  The  space  about  the  ship 
was  cleared  by  the  Myrmidons  and  they  quenched 
the  fire  which  had  already  destroyed  half  of  the  ship. 
But  the  battle  was  by  no  means  at  an  end.  The 
leaders  of  the  Trojans  rallied  their  forces  inside  the 
intrenchments  and  put  them  in  order  once  more. 
Patroclus  did  his  friend  credit;  he  was  indefatigable 
and  himself  slew  many  of  the  boldest  warriors. 
The  other  Achaian  leaders  joined  him  and  new  life 
and  hope  filled  every  breast. 

The  Trojans  could  no  longer  maintain  their  posi¬ 
tion  inside  the  intrenchments.  Hector  was  the 
first  to  reach  the  open  plain  with  his  chariot,  but 
many  another  who  tried  to  follow  him  was  crushed 
in  the  throng.  But  the  rout  would  not  have  been 
so  general  had  Patroclus  remembered  Achilles’ 
instructions.  But  his  success,  the  suddenness  of 
the  victory,  and  particularly  his  secret  desire  to  kill 

[  ioo] 


PATROCLUS  AND  HECTOR 


Hector,  misled  the  zealous  man  to  pursue  the  fleeing 
enemy.  He  jumped  from  his  chariot,  which  he 
instructed  to  have  follow  him,  and  hurried  after 
his  victims.  Now  he  overthrew  Pronous  and  took 
his  armor;  next  he  slew  the  charioteer  Thestor  and 
took  his  likewise.  With  a  stone  he  crushed  the 
head  of  Euryalus,  who  was  about  to  attack  him, 
and  many  others  were  struck  down  by  his  mighty 
arm.  Not  a  Trojan  was  able  to  withstand  Patroclus. 
The  foolish  man!  Had  he  but  remembered  Achilles’ 
warning  he  might  have  escaped  death;  but  Jupiter’s 
decree  is  mightier  than  man. 

A  few  hours  earlier  the  Trojans  had  broken  down 
the  enemy’s  wall  and  now  the  Achaians  were  seeking 
to  conquer  the  lofty  walls  of  Troy’s  fortress,  and 
Patroclus  himself  was  ambitious  of  being  the  first 
to  enter  the  city.  But  Hector  plucked  up  courage 
and  commanded  his  charioteer  to  drive  straight  at 
the  leader.  As  soon  as  he  saw  him  coming,  Patroclus 
left  the  wall  and  ran  furiously  to  meet  him,  holding 
his  lance  in  his  left  hand  and  in  the  right  a  stone 
which  he  had  hastily  picked  up.  This  he  threw 
with  all  his  might  at  the  two  tall  men  in  the  chariot, 
and  behold,  it  struck  the  good  Kebriones,  Priam’s 
son,  and  crushed  his  skull,  so  that  his  body  fell 
abruptly  across  the  chariot  seat.  Patroclus  cried 
out  maliciously:  “See  how  hasty  the  man  is!  There 
are  splendid  divers  among  the  Trojans.  If  he  could 
but  have  tried  his  luck  in  the  water,  instead  of  in 
the  sand,  he  would  have  caught  plenty  of  oysters 
to  satisfy  his  hunger.” 


[IOI  ] 


ACHILLES 


He  sprang  upon  the  wounded  man  to  take  his 
arms,  but  Hector  jumped  from  his  chariot  and  seized 
his  brother’s  head.  Patroclus  took  his  feet  and  the 
two  men  struggled  for  the  body.  A  crowd  of  Trojans 
and  Achaians  came  to  their  aid,  and  spears,  shields, 
and  naked  swords  rattled  noisily  against  one  another. 
The  Trojans  defended  Hector  as  well  as  they  could, 
but  while  he  struggled  for  the  body,  none  could  get 
near  him.  However,  a  bold  Trojan  seized  a  favor¬ 
able  opportunity,  and  with  a  powerful  blow  of  his 
sword,  knocked  off  Patroclus’  helmet,  cutting  the 
strap  of  his  shield  at  the  same  time,  so  that  it  fell  to 
the  earth.  The  hero  started  back  and  let  go  the 
corpse,  but  as  he  turned,  Euphorbus  stabbed  him  in 
the  back.  He  tried  to  escape,  but  Hector  laid  him 
low  with  his  heavy  lance.  The  Achaians  trembled, 
and  even  the  most  courageous  of  them  lost  their 
heads,  and  none  dared  interfere  as  Hector,  bracing 
his  foot  against  the  body,  drew  out  his  spear,  then 
stripped  off  the  armor.  It  was  now  Hector’s  turn 
to  mock  at  the  dying  man  and  he  cried:  “Well, 
Patroclus,  dost  thou  still  expect  to  lay  waste  our 
city  and  carry  off  our  women?  One  could  see  thou 
hadst  great  deeds  in  mind.  No  doubt  Achilles  bade 
thee  not  return  without  Hector’s  bloody  coat  of  mail. 
Now,  poor  man,  thou  liest  here  and  givest  me  thy 
fine  armor,  but  thee  I  give  to  the  dogs  and  birds  of 
prey  for  food.” 

Faintly  the  dying  man  answered  him:  “It  is  a 
foolish  boast,  Hector.  Thou  earnest,  when  I  was 
defenseless  and  wounded,  to  rob  me.  In  open 

[  102] 


PATROCLUS  AND  HECTOR 


conflict  I  could  have  slain  twenty  like  thee,  but  a 
boy  could  have  done  what  thou  hast  done.  But 
vengeance  is  approaching  and  when  it  comes,  think 
of  me.  The  godlike  Achilles  still  lives. ” 

“Spare  me  thy  prophecies  and  die,”  replied  Hector. 
“Who  knoweth  but  Achilles,  like  thee,  may  give  up 
his  soul  at  the  point  of  my  spear?”  With  these 
words  he  left  the  dying  man  and  carried  the  splendid 
armor  to  a  place  of  safety,  then  went  back  into  the 
fray. 


Chapter  XII 

I  he  Fight  for  Patroclus'  Body  —  Achilles 
Mourns  for  His  Fallen  Friend  —  Thetis 
and  Vulcan  —  Achilles'  Shield 


HECTOR  next  roved  about  seeking  to  capture 
the  splendid  steeds  of  Achilles  with  which 
Patroclus  had  entered  the  field,  but  he 
could  not  come  near  them,  for  Patroclus’  charioteer, 
Automedon,  was  already  far  distant.  Meanwhile 
the  space  about  Patroclus’  body  was  deserted 
except  for  Menelaus,  who  stood  guard  beside  it, 
covering  it  with  his  shield  until  some  of  his  comrades 
should  come  up  to  bear  it  away  to  the  ships.  He 
was  spied  by  Euphorbus,  brother  of  that  Hyperenor 
who  had  fallen  by  Menelaus’  hand  the  day  before. 
He  approached  within  a  spear’s  cast  and  called  to 
him:  “Son  of  Atreus,  stand  back  from  the  dead! 
Thou  shalt  not  give  honorable  burial  to  this  destroyer 
who  hath  slain  so  many  of  us.  Back,  before  I  rob 
thee  of  thy  sweet  life!” 

“Great  Jupiter,”  cried  Menelaus,  “did  one  ever 
hear  such  insolence!  Only  yesterday  thy  brother 
Hyperenor  was  equally  bold,  but  I  believe  he  has 
paid  the  penalty,  for  he  can  scarcely  have  returned 

[  104] 


FIGHT  FOR  PATROCLUS’  BODY 


to  his  dear  wife  and  old  father  on  his  own  feet.  The 
same  fate  awaiteth  thee,  if  thou  approach  nearer. 
I  advise  thee  to  escape  while  thou  canst.” 

“It  is  for  my  brother’s  sake  that  I  would  fight  with 
thee,”  cried  Euphorbus.  “How  delighted  shall  my 
father  be  when  I  bring  him  thy  bloody  armor  in 
token  of  vengeance.  But  why  do  I  waste  time  in 
talk?  Let  us  try  our  skill.” 

As  he  spoke  he  ran  at  Menelaus  full  tilt  with  his 
lance,  but  the  point  bent  like  lead  against  the  shield 
and  did  not  even  scratch  it.  Then  Menelaus  ran 
him  through  with  his  own  spear  and  the  slender 
youth  fell,  as  a  tender  sprout  of  olive  is  uprooted  by 
the  wind.  His  long  waving  hair  was  bathed  in  blood 
and  he,  who  but  a  moment  before  had  bounded 
among  the  ranks  of  warriors  like  a  deer,  lay  un¬ 
recognizable.  Menelaus  was  about  to  take  his 
armor  when  he  saw  Hector  at  a  distance,  and  not 
caring  to  face  him  he  left  Patroclus’  body  and  ran 
to  fetch  the  elder  Ajax,  that  together  they  might 
protect  their  friend  from  the  thieving  hands  of  the 
Trojans. 

Then  Glaucus  spoke  sullenly  to  Hector.  “Thou 
art  a  great  boaster,  but  never  have  I  seen  thee  at 
the  post  of  danger,  nor  attempting  to  defend  or 
avenge  any  of  thy  comrades.  The  heroic  Sarpedon, 
who  sacrificed  so  much  for  thee,  was  left  to  his  fate, 
and  no  one  knoweth  where  he  fell.  Do  the  Lycians 
deserve  this  at  thy  hands?  If  thou  art  so  ungrate¬ 
ful  and  no  honor  is  paid  a  fallen  hero,  then  mayest 
thou  fight  thy  battles  alone  and  I  will  take  my 

[105] 


ACHILLES 


Lycians  home.  If  ye  Trojans  were  men  of  courage 
and  decision,  ye  would  carry  off  the  body  of  Patroclus 
to  a  place  of  safety.  Doubtless  the  Achaians  would 
then  offer  the  body  of  Sarpedon  and  his  weapons  in 
exchange  and  even  more.  But  thou  fleest  the  battle 
like  a  coward,  fearing  Ajax,  who  is,  indeed,  quite 
another  sort  of  man.” 

Darkly  Hector  gazed  at  him  and  began:  “Ah, 
my  friend,  I  have  always  taken  thee  for  a  man  of 
sense,  but  now  hast  thou  spoken  rashly.  When 
did  the  enemy  or  the  snorting  of  horses  ever  terrify 
me?  No,  I  fear  neither  Ajax  nor  Diomedes  nor  any 
of  the  Achaian  heroes,  but  rather  the  decree  of  Jove, 
who  has  apparently  given  victory  into  the  hands  of 
the  enemy.  What  availeth  the  valor  of  a  mortal 
against  the  god  of  gods?  But  if  thou  wilt  observe 
my  actions,  take  heed  and  see  if  I  am  as  timid  as 
thou  hast  said.” 

Clad  in  Achilles’  magnificent  armor  he  immediately 
assembled  his  men  with  loud  battle  cries.  Calling 
all  the  princes  together,  he  spoke  to  them.  “Friends 
and  allies,  not  to  be  in  the  midst  of  many  men  have. 
I  called  ye  to  Troy,  but  that  ye  might  aid  me  in 
time  of  danger  to  protect  our  wives  and  children. 
It  is  for  this  that  our  poor  people  are  laboring  to 
feed  and  sustain  ye  with  their  flocks  and  the  fruits  of 
their  fields,  and  for  this  I  am  striving  with  sword  and 
speech  to  encourage  ye  and  spur  ye  on  to  the  com¬ 
bat.  Then  let  us  fight  to  the  death!  And  to  him 
who  bears  the  body  of  Patroclus  into  Troy  I  promise 
a  rich  recompense.” 

[106] 


FIGHT  FOR  PATROCLUS’  BODY 


All  followed  him,  shouting,  to  the  spot  where 
Menelaus  and  Ajax  stood  shielding  the  body  of 
Patroclus.  Their  hearts  beat  wildly  when  they 
saw  the  little  band  bearing  down  on  them,  and 
Menelaus  ran  as  fast  as  he  could  to  procure  more 
help.  “Come  friends,”  he  cried,  “there  lies  Patro¬ 
clus,  whom  the  Trojans  would  seize  and  carry  away 
to  become  food  for  Trojan  dogs.  Do  ye  not  feel 
the  shame  of  it?” 

The  younger  Aj ax  was  the  first  to  hear  and  respond ; 
then  came  Idomeneus  and  Meriones,  each  with  a 
band  of  followers.  They  arrived  beside  the  corpse 
just  as  Hector  and  his  men  came  up,  and  the  shock 
of  meeting  was  like  the  ocean  tide  at  the  mouth  of 
some  mighty  river  which  empties  into  the  sea,  so 
terrible  was  the  crash  of  shields  and  lances. 

Then  Automedon  with  Achilles’  steeds  came 
dashing  along,  resolved  himself  to  contend  for  the 
corpse.  Hector  saw  him  coming  and  cried,  rejoicing, 
to  iFneas:  “There  come  Achilles’  splendid  horses! 
Come,  if  thou  wilt  aid  me,  let  us  take  them!”  They 
ran  toward  the  chariot,  but  Automedon,  springing 
to  the  ground,  called  Ajax  and  Menelaus  to  his  aid. 
Chromeus  and  Aretus  joined  Hector  and  iFneas 
and  a  fresh  contest  raged  about  the  chariot.  Hector 
aimed  well  and  cast  with  mighty  power,  but  Autome¬ 
don  dashed  quickly  aside  and  the  spear  flew  far  over 
him  into  the  earth,  where  it  quivered  for  a  long  time. 
Automedon  was  more  fortunate,  and  although 
Hector  dodged  the  blow,  it  struck  Aretus,  who  stood 
behind  him.  Meanwhile  evening  was  descending 

[  107] 


ACHILLES 


and  Ajax  was  anxious  to  secure  the  body  before 
night  came  on.  But  it  was  all  the  Achaians  could 
do  to  hold  back  the  enemy.  Then  Ajax  said  to 
Menelaus:  “If  only  some  good  youth  would  hasten 
to  the  ships  and  take  to  Achilles  the  tidings  of  his 
friend’s  death  perhaps  he  would  come  himself  to 
rescue  the  body  from  the  enemy’s  hands.  Dost 
thou  see  Antilochus,  Nestor’s  son?  I  think  he  could 
reach  camp  quickest.”  Menelaus  hastened  away 
to  seek  the  youth,  where  he  was  fighting  at  the  other 
side  of  the  battlefield.  He  was  horrified  to  learn  of 
the  hero’s  death  and  tears  filled  his  eyes;  but  he 
did  not  tarry  and  hurried  away  to  Achilles. 

Menelaus  returned  straightway  to  Ajax,  saying: 
“I  have  sent  him,  but  I  doubt  whether  Achilles  will 
come  without  his  armor.  So  let  us  try  once  more 
to  secure  the  body.” 

“Thou  art  right,”  answered  Ajax.  “Let  us  make 
another  attempt,  and  if  they  retire  but  a  little  way, 
do  thou  and  Meriones  seize  the  corpse  while  the 
rest  of  us  keep  off  the  mighty  Hector  and  the  other 
Trojans.” 

This  strategy  partially  succeeded  and  Menelaus 
and  Meriones  were  able  to  drag  the  body  some 
distance  away.  Meanwhile  Achilles  had  been  im¬ 
patiently  awaiting  his  tardy  friend.  He  ascended 
to  his  usual  post,  the  high  deck  of  his  ship,  and  saw, 
approaching  through  the  twilight  and  clouds  of 
dust,  dense  crowds  which  looked  like  fleeing  men. 
It  seemed  to  him  that  he  could  hear  Hector’s  trium¬ 
phant  voice  pursuing  the  Achaians.  An  uneasy 
[  108] 


FIGHT  FOR  PATROCLUS’  BODY 


premonition  seized  him  and  he  was  about  to  send 
out  a  messenger  when  young  Antilochus  appeared 
before  him  and  spake,  weeping:  “Woe  is  me,  son 
of  Peleus,  I  bring  thee  sad  tidings.  Patroclus 
is  slain,  and  our  warriors  are  fighting  desperately 
for  his  naked  body,  for  Hector  has  taken  his 
weapons.” 

Achilles  grew  pale  as  death.  He  tore  his  hair 
with  rage,  beat  his  breast,  and  threw  himself  upon 
the  ground,  covering  dress,  face,  and  head  with  dust. 
His  eyes  flashed  dangerously,  his  heart  palpitated, 
and  horrible  groans  escaped  his  half-open  lips. 
His  slaves  gathered  about  him  in  affright;  but  when 
they  learned  the  cause  of  his  boundless  sorrow,  they 
all  burst  out  weeping.  Antilochus  wept  also  and 
held  the  hero’s  hands,  fearing  that  the  passionate 
man  would  harm  himself.  This  terrible  despair 
lasted  a  long  time,  but  at  last  the  overburdened 
heart  found  relief  in  tears  and  he  broke  out  in  loud 
lamentations. 

His  mother  Thetis  heard  him  and  arose  from  the 
depths  of  the  sea  to  seat  herself  beside  her  unhappy 
son.  She  pressed  his  head  to  her  bosom  and  in¬ 
quired  tenderly:  “Dear  child,  what  is  troubling 
thee  now?  Do  not  conceal  anything  from  me. 
Speak!  Hath  Jupiter  not  fulfilled  thy  wish  and 
given  the  victory  to  the  Trojans?” 

“What  care  I  for  the  favor  of  Jupiter  when 
Patroclus,  whom  I  loved  as  myself,  lies  dead!  Hector 
hath  slain  him  and  taken  the  armor,  that  splendid 
gift  of  my  valiant  father.  For  what  a  fate  was  I 

[  109] 


ACHILLES 


born  I  But,  indeed,  I  will  not  live  if  I  may  not  slay 
Hector  and  avenge  the  death  of  my  friend.” 

“ Glorious  son,”  said  his  mother,  weeping,  “when 
thou  hast  slain  him  it  will  be  thy  doom;  for  thy 
death  is  decreed  immediately  after  Hector’s.” 

“Would  that  I  were  already  dead,”  answered 
Achilles  gloomily,  “as  I  was  not  permitted  to  save 
my  friend.  But  I  will  avenge  him  and  pay  him 
such  honor  as  no  mortal  has  ever  received  before. 
Then  let  Jupiter  do  with  me  as  he  will.  Death  is 
the  lot  of  all.  Even  great  Hercules  died,  the  best 
beloved  of  all  Jupiter’s  sons.  But  before  Death 
takes  me,  many  a  Trojan  woman  shall  lament  that 
I  have  slain  her  son  or  young  spouse.  They  shall  all 
learn  that  my  long  rest  is  ended.” 

“I  shall  not  restrain  thee,”  answered  the  silver¬ 
footed  Thetis,  “for  thy  grief  is  righteous  and  thy 
resolution  to  honor  the  dead  and  save  thy  friends 
from  destruction  is  commendable.  But  thou  hast 
no  weapons  and  I  forbid  thee  to  enter  the  turmoil 
of  Mars  until  at  dawn  thou  seest  me  returning  with 
armor  from  the  hand  of  the  artist  Vulcan.”  She 
suddenly  disappeared  and  ascended  to  Olympus  to 
beg  the  weapons  from  the  god. 

Meanwhile  the  noise  of  the  struggle  grew  louder 
as  the  fortunes  of  war  drove  the  Achaians  to  flight. 
With  loud  cries  the  Trojans  followed  the  body  of 
Patroclus  in  the  twilight,  and  although  the  two 
bearers  hurried  as  fast  as  they  could  to  get  it  to  a 
place  of  safety,  they  were  often  in  danger  of  losing 
it.  Hector  pursued  them  continually  with  his  men 
[  no] 


FIGHT  FOR  PATROCLUS’  BODY 


and  more  than  once  had  seized  one  of  the  dead 
man’s  feet.  The  two  Ajaxes  had  no  thought  of 
killing  Hector,  for  his  gigantic  stature  appalled 
them.  They  only  held  the  corpse  tighter,  to  keep 
it  from  being  torn  from  them.  Just  as  they  were 
nearing  the  moat,  they  would  have  lost  it,  if  a  swift 
messenger  had  not  summoned  Achilles.  “Help! 
help!  Achilles!”  he  cried.  “Hector  will  soon  have 
taken  the  body  of  Patroclus.  He  threatens  to  cut 
off  the  head  and  put  it  on  a  pike  and  to  throw  the 
trunk  to  the  Trojan  dogs.  What  a  disgrace  if  thy 
friend’s  body  be  taken  and  misused!” 

Like  a  maniac,  without  armor  or  weapons,  Achilles 
rushed  out,  and  in  a  voice  like  thunder  rolling  in  the 
mountains,  he  roared  out  most  terrible  threats,  so 
that  both  Trojans  and  Achaians  were  overcome  by 
fear  and  Hector,  terrified,  let  go  the  corpse  and 
quickly  retired  with  his  followers,  thinking  Achilles 
was  already  on  his  track.  Thus  the  two  heroes 
brought  the  corpse  safely  into  camp.  Achilles 
gazed  long  upon  his  friend,  speechless,  with  bowed 
head,  clenched  hands,  and  tears  coursing  down  his 
cheeks.  The  Trojans  now  held  council  whether 
they  should  spend  the  night  in  the  city  or  on  the 
battlefield.  Polydamas  was  anxious  to  retire,  for 
he  feared  Achilles;  but  Hector  insisted  on  remaining, 
for  he  held  that  it  would  be  cowardly  to  allow  the 
enemy  to  suspect  that  they  were  afraid.  “Let 
Achilles  come  forth  to-morrow,”  he  concluded;  “he 
will  do  so  at  his  own  risk.  I  shall  surely  not  fly 
before  him.  I  long  to  meet  him,  and  then  Jupiter 

[  hi  ] 


ACHILLES 


shall  decide  which  one  of  us  shall  be  covered  with 
glory.  Mars  is  a  vacillating  god,  who  oft  destroys 
the  destroyer.” 

So  they  encamped  on  the  field  for  the  night. 
Youths  brought  forth  animals  from  the  city  for  the 
sacrifice,  together  with  bread  and  wine,  lit  fires,  and 
prepared  the  evening  meal.  The  Achaians  also, 
after  supping,  laid  down  to  rest.  But  Achilles  could 
not  sleep.  Kneeling  beside  his  dead  friend,  he  laid 
his  hand  on  his  cold  breast  and  sobbed.  Overcome 
with  grief  he  cried:  “Before  the  earth  hides  me, 
thou  shalt  be  avenged,  my  Patroclus.  I  will  lay 
Hector’s  weapons  at  thy  feet  and  Hector’s  bloody 
head  beside  them.  I  will  slay  twelve  Trojan  youths 
in  thine  honor.  Rest  thou  here  in  peace,  for  the 
morrow  shall  shed  glory  upon  thee  and  me.” 

Meanwhile  Thetis  had  arrived  in  Olympus  and 
went  straightway  to  Vulcan’s  dwelling.  Late  as  it 
was,  she  heard  him  hammering  in  his  workshop, 
for  he  was  making  twenty  bronze  tripods  for  the 
Olympians’  hall.  He  had  fastened  golden  wheels 
to  each  foot,  so  that  they  could  roll  to  the  banquet 
of  themselves.  They  were  all  finished  except  fo^ 
the  handles,  and  these  he  wished  to  complete  that 
night.  Aphrodite,  the  beautiful  spouse  of  the  lame 
fire  god,  was  the  first  to  spy  the  newcomer  at  the 
door.  She  took  her  hand,  saying:  “Welcome,  dear 
friend,  what  bringeth  thee  so  late  from  thy  sea 
depths?  Thou  dost  not  often  visit  me.”  She  led 
her  within  and  called  her  spouse. 

He  immediately  left  his  anvil,  washed  his  hands 
[112] 


FIGHT  FOR  PATROCLUS’  BODY 


with  a  sponge,  also  his  sooty  face,  neck,  and  power¬ 
ful  chest,  threw  on  his  cloak,  and  leaning  on  his 
golden  staff,  came  limping  to  the  door.  He  took 
the  goddess’  hand  and  bade  her  welcome.  “I 
always  think  of  thee  with  gratitude,”  he  said;  “for 
thou  didst  take  me  in  when  I  was  lamed  and  my 
mother  would  not  tolerate  me  in  heaven.  Then  I 
lived  for  a  time  in  thy  crystal  palace  under  the  sea 
and  fashioned  many  a  pretty  piece  of  work  —  rings 
and  clasps,  pins  and  chains  —  until  Juno  took  me 
into  favor  again  and  I  left  thy  dwelling.  There¬ 
fore,  Aphrodite,  see  that  thou  entertain  our  guest 
worthily.” 

When  Thetis  had  partaken  of  the  nectar  and 
ambrosia  which  Aphrodite  set  before  her,  she  began 
to  recite  all  her  son’s  troubles,  from  Agamemnon’s 
injustice  down  to  the  fall  of  Patroclus.  Then  she 
begged  the  god  to  forge  new  armor  for  the  unlucky 
Achilles,  so  that  he  might  be  ready  to  attack  Hector 
in  the  morning.  Aphrodite  was  displeased,  for  she 
feared  for  the  Trojans,  but  the  god  paid  no  attention 
to  her  and  promised  to  fulfil  Thetis’  desire.  He 
immediately  returned  to  his  workshop  and  began 
the  work. 

Before  the  night  was  two  thirds  past  the  most 
splendid  suit  of  armor  that  ever  a  hero  had  possessed 
was  completed.  The  shield  especially  was  a  work 
of  art.  In  the  middle  the  earth  was  represented 
with  the  sea  and  sky,  sun,  moon,  and  stars.  There 
were  also  two  cities;  one  at  peace  and  the  other  in 
the  throes  of  war.  In  one  a  wedding  was  being 

[113] 


ACHILLES 


celebrated  with  music  and  dance  and  there  were 
many  pictures  of  peaceful  labor  in  field  and  vine¬ 
yard.  The  other  city  was  in  a  state  of  siege,  and  one 
could  plainly  see  the  besiegers  and  the  citizens  de¬ 
fending  themselves.  Around  the  edge  of  the  shield 
flowed  the  deep  river  Oceanus. 


[114] 


Chapter  XIII 

Achilles  and  Agamemnon  Reconciled — 
Achilles  Goes  into  Battle 


ROSY-FINGERED  Eos  was  mounting  the 
eastern  sky  as  Thetis  arrived  at  her  son’s 
tent  with  the  rich  suit  of  armor.  She  found 
him  still  stretched  beside  Patroclus’  body  with  the 
mourning  women  about  him.  Achilles  accepted 
Vulcan’s  wonderful  work  joyfully,  and  the  sight  of  the 
weapons  made  his  eyes  flash  with  a  dangerous  light. 
When  he  had  carefully  examined  and  admired  the 
artistic  embellishments  he  said  to  Thetis:  “Mother, 
these  weapons  are  not  the  work  of  a  mortal;  some 
god  has  forged  them.  Come,  I  will  arm  myself,  that 
the  Trojans  may  tremble  at  the  glorious  sight.” 

He  then  approached  the  tents  and  ships  of  the 
Achaians,  calling  to  them  loudly  to  come  forth. 
They  rejoiced  to  hear  the  thunder  of  that  voice, 
which  had  been  silent  so  long,  and  came  hastening 
to  the  council  place.  Diomedes  was  limping  pain¬ 
fully  and  leaning  on  his  lance.  Even  Agamemnon 
and  Ulysses,  both  weakened  by  painful  wounds, 
came  dragging  themselves  along  with  staves.  When 
they  were  all  seated  in  their  places,  Achilles  took 

[US] 


ACHILLES 


up  the  sceptre  and  spoke.  “Son  of  Atreus,  let  us 
be  reconciled,  as  we  have  long  wished  to  be.  I  had 
rather  the  gods  had  slain  the  rosy  maiden  before 
ever  a  quarrel  on  her  account  had  estranged  us  and 
my  anger  sent  so  many  noble  Achaians  down  to 
Hades.  But  let  us  forget  the  bitter  past.  I  have 
moderated  my  anger,  for  a  generous  man  should 
not  be  implacable,  however  much  he  has  been 
wronged.  And  now  let  us  hasten  to  lead  our  people 
to  the  combat,  for  the  Trojans  must  not  burn  the 
ships  to-day.” 

He  was  interrupted  by  a  loud  shout  of  exultation. 
The  tidings  that  he  had  relented  and  would  join 
them  in  the  battle  was  enough  to  fill  all  hearts  with 
joy.  In  their  excitement  they  did  not  care  to  hear 
more,  and  not  until  the  thunderous  tones  of  the 
heralds  had  commanded  silence  could  Agamemnon’s 
answer  be  heard.  “Jupiter  alone  knows,”  said  he, 
“how  blind  rage  could  have  led  me  to  commit  such 
an  injustice,  from  which  my  heart  now  recoils  and 
which  I  have  long  bitterly  repented.  Thou  hast 
already  heard  from  Ulysses  of  the  gifts  which  I 
offered  thee  in  reparation,  and  even  now,  that  thou 
comest  of  thyself,  I  will  take  nothing  back.  My 
servants  shall  deliver  all  to  thee,  if  thou  wilt  but  save 
the  Achaians.” 

Smiling,  the  warlike  Achilles  answered  him:  “I  care 
not  whether  thou  givest  or  retainest  thy  treasure.  Let 
us  think  only  of  the  war  and  lead  the  battalions  with¬ 
out  delay  against  the  enemy,  for  there  is  much  work  to 
do  and  great  deeds  must  be  accomplished  this  day.” 

[n6] 


ACHILLES  AND  AGAMEMNON 


Now  Ulysses  spoke  up.  “Not  thus,  excellent 
Achilles;  we  must  not  be  hasty.  Let  the  soldiers 
partake  of  food,  for  the  battle  will  not  be  of  a  few 
hours’  duration  only.  Thou  hast  more  endurance 
than  all  others,  but  none  but  thee  can  hold  out 
through  the  long  day’s  work  without  food  or  drink. 
Let  the  people  first  break  their  fast,  while  Aga¬ 
memnon  sends  for  the  promised  gifts,  that  we  may 
all  look  upon  them.  Then  he  shall  feast  thee  in 
his  tent,  that  thou  mayest  enjoy  all  the  honor  due 
thee;  for  even  a  king  should  propitiate  the  man 
whom  he  hath  wronged.” 

“I  gladly  follow  thy  wise  counsel,”  answered 
Agamemnon,  “and  if  thou  wilt,  thou  mayest  go 
thyself  to  my  ships,  with  six  picked  men,  to  fetch 
the  promised  gifts.” 

“Son  of  Atreus,”  interrupted  Achilles,  “never 
mind  the  gifts.  Let  us  think  only  of  the  slain,  who 
are  calling  to  us  to  avenge  them.  And  ye  talk  of 
eating  and  drinking  and  of  rest!  If  I  were  in  com¬ 
mand  the  people  should  be  led  forth  fasting  and  at 
night;  after  the  day’s  work  they  should  feast  twice 
over.  For  my  part,  not  a  drop  shall  pass  my  lips 
until  I  shall  have  avenged  my  friend.  I  have  no 
thoughts,  but  of  murder,  bloodshed,  and  the  death 
rattle  of  falling  men.” 

“Great  son  of  Peleus,”  suggested  Uysses,  “though 
thou  art  no  doubt  stronger  and  braver  than  I,  yet 
I  think  I  can  give  thee  good  counsel,  for  I  have  lived 
longer  and  seen  much.  Take  my  advice  this  once. 
Thou  canst  conquer  only  with  warriors  who  are 

[  117] 


ACHILLES 


rested,  refreshed,  and  eager  for  the  fight;  but  the 
hungry  and  thirsty  soldier  will  follow  thee  half¬ 
heartedly  and  in  the  end  be  overcome  by  his  own 
weakness.” 

Without  awaiting  Achilles’  answer,  the  leaders 
gave  the  soldiers  the  signal  to  break  their  fast. 
Ulysses  quickly  selected  six  good  comrades  and 
went  to  fetch  the  presents  from  Agamemnon’s  ships 
and  tents.  He  selected  the  basins,  ewers,  the  horses 
and  women,  weighed  out  ten  pounds  of  gold,  and 
then  summoned  the  fair  Briseis  to  follow  him.  On 
their  return  to  the  council  place  Agamemnon  sent 
the  gifts  immediately  to  Achilles’  encampment. 

In  vain  the  noble  Achaian  heroes  surrounded 
Achilles  and  begged  him  to  join  them  at  the  banquet. 
He  shook  his  head,  saying:  “Kind  friends,  do  not 
trouble  me,  for  I  am  very  sorrowful  and  I  shall  fast 
until  the  sun  sets.”  The  princes  retired  sadly  to 
their  tents  to  partake  of  food.  Only  Atreus’  sons 
and  the  noble  Ulysses,  Nestor,  Idomeneus,  and  the 
gigantic  Phoenix  remained  with  him,  trying  to  com¬ 
fort  the  mourner.  He  sat  brooding  over  his  sorrow. 
“Dear,  unhappy  friend,”  he  said,  “how  oft  hast 
thou  brought  me  my  breakfast  and  tended  me  while 
the  others  went  forth  to  battle,  and  now  thou  best 
here  dead;  but  neither  food  nor  drink  can  refresh 
me  while  I  mourn  for  thee.  I  had  always  hoped 
that  I  alone  should  die  in  the  Trojan  land  and  that 
thou  shouldst  return  to  Phthia,  to  bring  up  my  son, 
dear  Neoptolemus.  And  now  thou  art  gone  before 
me. 

[n8] 


ACHILLES  AND  AGAMEMNON 


Thus  he  lamented,  and  all  his  friends  mourned 
with  him.  Even  Jupiter  was  touched  by  his  deep 
sorrow  and  sent  his  daughter  Athena  down  secretly 
to  strengthen  his  heart  with  heavenly  nectar,  and 
thus  the  hero  was  able  to  appear  in  all  his  glory  when 
the  warriors  gathered  together.  The  lust  of  battle 
had  dried  the  tears  upon  his  eyelids. 


[  1 19 1 


Chapter  XIV 

Achilles  in  Battle  —  The  Fight  on  the  River 


A  LL  Olympus  was  now  interested  in  the  combat 
/  \  of  mortals  since  the  godlike  Achilles  had 
X  Jl  taken  up  arms  again.  Many  of  the  divini¬ 
ties  promised  him  victory,  but  Jupiter  was  resolved 
that  he  should  not  yet  destroy  the  splendid  city 
of  the  Trojans,  for  fate  had  not  decreed  that  it 
should  fall  by  his  hand.  Therefore  he  commanded 
the  other  gods  to  stay  the  zeal  of  the  Pelide  should 
he  rage  too  terribly.  The  Trojans  were  already 
armed  and  in  the  field  and  the  swarms  of  Achaians 
flew  to  meet  them  like  a  heap  of  dry  leaves  driven 
before  the  wind.  Achilles  looked  everywhere  for 
Hector,  but  without  discovering  him.  Instead,  he 
espied  two  other  chieftains,  ^Tneas  and  Lykaon. 

^Eneas  determined  to  face  the  hero.  He  com¬ 
mended  his  soul  to  his  divine  mother  and  pushed 
forward  shouting  fierce  threats.  Achilles  ran  toward 
him  without  hesitation  and  then  stopping  suddenly 
he  called  out:  “How  canst  thou  venture  so  far  from 
thy  men,  iEneas?  What  is  it  impels  thee  to  fight 
with  me?  Dost  think  perchance  that  if  thou  shouldst 
conquer  me  thou  shalt  become  ruler  of  the  Trojans? 

[120] 


ACHILLES  IN  BATTLE 


Priam  has  still  plenty  of  sons!  Did  I  not  meet  thee 
on  Mount  Ida,  where  father  Jupiter  himself  was 
scarce  able  to  save  thee?  Thou  didst  run  like  a 
deer,  not  daring  to  look  behind  thee.  Thou  hadst 
better  fly  now,  if  life  is  dear  to  thee,  and  take  care 
not  to  get  in  my  way  a  second  time.” 

“Son  of  Peleus,”  answered  ^Eneas,  “do  not  hope 
to  frighten  me  with  words  like  a  child.  My  race  is 
as  exalted  as  thine  own,  for  I  was  fathered  by 
Anchises  of  Dardanus’  family  and  Aphrodite  is  my 
mother.  My  family  is  old  and  powerful.  But  why 
do  we  gossip  like  women?  Come,  let  us  see  whether 
it  be  Aphrodite  or  Thetis  who  shall  mourn  for  her 
son  to-day.” 

He  was  the  first  to  cast  his  spear,  and  Achilles 
held  his  shield  before  him  at  arm’s  length,  so  that 
should  it  pierce  the  metal,  it  might  not  touch  his 
body.  But  the  swift-flying  weapon  glanced  off 
harmlessly.  Immediately  he  hurled  his  own  power¬ 
ful  lance,  but  iEneas  threw  himself  on  the  ground 
and  covered  himself.  The  mighty  lance  crashed 
through  the  edge  of  his  shield  and  buried  itself  in 
the  ground  just  behind  the  crouching  man.  He 
arose  quickly,  seized  a  great  stone,  and  threw  it  at 
the  head  of  Achilles,  who  was  rushing  upon  him 
with  drawn  sword  in  a  blind  rage,  forgetting  to 
shield  himself,  so  that  had  Vulcan’s  helmet  not  been 
«o  strong,  helmet  and  skull  would  doubtless  have 
been  crushed.  .Eneas  was  about  to  exult  over  his 
fall,  but  Achilles  only  staggered  back  a  step  and  a 
god  warned  Eneas  to  escape.  He  therefore  drew 

[  1 2 1  ] 


ACHILLES 


Achilles’  heavy  spear  from  his  shield,  and  throwing 
it  down,  fled  into  the  crowd  of  Trojans. 

When  Achilles  came  to,  he  found  himself  on  the 
ground,  supporting  himself  on  one  arm,  and  alone. 
He  was  astonished  and  said  to  himself:  “What 
miracle  is  this  ?  Here  lies  my  spear  and  my  adversary 
is  nowhere  to  be  seen.  But  indeed  Tineas  must  be 
beloved  of  the  gods,  for  no  one  has  ever  vanquished 
me  thus.  But  he  did  not  venture  to  kill  me  in  my 
swoon  and  is,  no  doubt,  happy  to  have  himself 
escaped.  And  now  I  must  away  to  measure  myself 
with  other  Trojans.”  He  first  returned  to  his  Myr¬ 
midons  and  cheered  them  with  loud  cries  of  “For¬ 
ward,  man  to  man!  Let  none  hold  back!  I  cannot 
alone  conquer  the  whole  Trojan  army,  even  Mars 
himself  could  not  do  that.  But  my  lance  shall 
never  rest.” 

Among  the  Trojans  the  gallant  Hector  was  going 
about  encouraging  his  bands.  “Do  not  fear,  ye 
valiant  Trojans,  because  the  enemy  has  gained  a 
single  man  to-day.  Grim  Achilles  has  certainly 
uttered  great  threats,  but  words  are  not  deeds. 
Behold,  I  go  forward  to  encounter  him  unafraid, 
though  his  hand  were  a  bolt  of  lightning  and  his 
breast  of  bronze.” 

Achilles  had  already  broken  into  the  ranks  of  the 
Trojans  and  slain  a  man  here  and  there.  He  was 
like  a  hungry  wolf  hasting  from  one  victim  to  another. 
His  lance  was  constantly  in  flight.  He  pierced  the 
noble  Demoleon,  then  laid  his  charioteer  Hippodamos 
in  the  dust,  then  drawing  his  spear  from  the  body, 
[  122] 


ACHILLES  IN  BATTLE 


he  hurled  it  after  Polydorus,  Priam’s  youngest  son, 
whom  his  father  had  begged  not  to  enter  the  fight. 
But  the  youth,  considered  the  best  runner  in  the 
army,  was  passionate  and  fiery  and  would  not  be 
restrained.  Just  as  he  was  flying  past,  Achilles’ 
terrible  spear  struck  him.  He  fell,  groaning  and 
holding  his  wounded  side.  Thus  his  brother  Hector 
espied  him  and  in  a  passion  of  grief  he  advanced 
upon  Achilles,  swinging  his  lance  like  flashing 
lightning.  • 

Seeing  him  coming  thus,  Achilles  cried:  “Ah! 
there  is  he  who  killed  my  friend!  Come,  Hector, 
come,  that  thou  mayest  meet  thy  doom!”  He  had 
scarcely  spoken  when  Hector  stood  before  him  and 
answered  unabashed:  “Do  not  hope  to  intimidate 
me  with  words,  O  Achilles !  Even  if  thou  art  stronger 
than  I,  it  rests  with  the  gods  to  decide  whether  I 
shall  not  rob  thee  of  thy  life.” 

He  threw  the  lance  with  all  his  might,  but  it  glanced 
off  Achilles’  hard-polished  shield.  He  turned  about, 
frightened,  and  fled  like  the  wind  before  the  hero’s 
hissing  spear.  “Ah!  truly  Phoebus  must  be  with 
thee,”  cried  Achilles.  “Destruction  was  hard  upon 
thee  and  thou  hast  escaped.  But  the  next  time  I 
meet  thee  I  shall  send  thee  down  to  Hades.”  He 
glanced  about  angrily  for  other  adversaries. 

See,  now  his  chariot  pursues  a  band  of  Trojans 
who  prefer  to  flee  all  together  rather  than  meet  this 
single  man.  He  pressed  forward  to  one  side,  cutting 
them  off  from  the  rest  of  the  army  and  driving  them 
all  into  the  river.  There  they  paddled  about  like 

[  123  ] 


ACHILLES 


swimming  poodles  until  Achilles,  leaving  his  lance 
on  the  bank,  sprang  after  them  to  stab  those  whom 
he  could  reach  with  his  sword.  Finally  he  drove 
twelve  youths  into  the  reeds  and  there  bound  their 
hands  behind  their  backs  with  his  armor  straps.  He 
then  led  them  out  and  gave  them  into  the  hands  of 
his  charioteer  to  take  back  to  the  Myrmidons. 
They  were  destined  for  a  cruel  sacrifice  to  Patroclus. 

Achilles  turned  again  to  the  river  and  there  he 
recognized  with  astonishment,  among  those  who 
were  trying  in  vain  to  clamber  up  the  steep  banks, 
a  youth,  son  of  Priam,  named  Lykaon,  whom  he 
had  taken  at  the  beginning  of  the  war  and  sold  for 
one  hundred  oxen  into  Lemnos.  Some  years  later 
a  rich  Phrygian  had  purchased  him,  from  whom  he 
had  but  lately  escaped,  having  returned  only  eleven 
days  before  to  the  house  of  his  venerable  father. 
“Ha!  there  is  Lykaon !”  cried  Achilles  in  surprise. 
“How  comes  he  here?  This  time  he  shall  taste  the 
tip  of  my  spear  and  we  shall  see  if  he  return  from 
the  underworld  to  cause  me  trouble  again.”  He 
went  to  fetch  his  spear  and  Lykaon  swam  as  hard 
as  he  could  to  throw  himself  at  his  feet  and  beg  for 
mercy. 

“Fool!”  thundered  the  terrible  voice  of  the  hero, 
“what  do  I  want  with  ransom  money?  Before 
Patroclus  fell  I  was  inclined  to  show  mercy  and 
carried  away  many  captives,  but  now  not  one  who 
falls  into  my  hands  shall  survive  —  least  of  all  one 
of  Priam’s  sons.  Die  then,  my  friend !  Thou  criest 
out  in  vain.  Patroclus,  too,  had  to  die,  who  was 

[  124] 


ACHILLES  IN  BATTLE 


far  mightier  than  thou.  And  seest  thou  not  how 
great  and  powerful  I  am?  My  father  was  a  noble 
king,  a  goddess  is  my  mother,  and  yet  my  death  and 
doom  are  drawing  near  and  sooner  or  later  I  shall 
fall  by  the  spear  or  arrow.” 

The  poor  youth’s  heart  and  knees  trembled.  He 
spread  out  his  arms,  shut  his  eyes,  and  thus  received 
the  death  stroke.  Then  Achilles  seized  him  by  the 
feet  and  flung  him  far  out  into  the  river.  “There! 
Swim  among  the  fish,”  he  cried.  “Many  a  one  shall 
feed  on  Lykaon.  Thus  I  shall  pursue  ye  all,  until 
ye  have  atoned  for  Patroclus’  death  and  the  woe  of 
the  Achaians.” 

But  the  river  god  who  heard  this  blasphemy  was 
angered.  Asteropseus,  son  of  Pelegon,  was  still 
standing  in  the  water  and  Scamander  breathed 
courage  into  him.  He  was  practised  in  casting  with 
both  hands  and  Achilles  saw  him  advancing  with 
two  raised  spears.  He  shouted  to  him:  “Who  art 
thou,  rash  man?  Unhappy  are  the  parents  of  those 
who  contend  with  me!” 

“What  wouldst  thou  know  of  me,  great  Pelide?” 
he  answered.  “I  came  from  distant  Paeonia  with  a 
gallant  army  but  eleven  days  ago.  Now  let  us 
fight,  valiant  Achilles.” 

With  these  words  he  let  fly  both  lances  at  once 
upon  the  hero.  One  of  them  rebounded  harmlessly 
from  the  shield,  the  other  brushed  his  left  elbow 
and  buried  itself  in  the  sand.  And  now  Achilles 
swung  his  bloody  staff,  but  missed  aim  also,  and  his 
lance  struck  the  sandy  bank  on  the  other  side  of  the 

[125] 


ACHILLES 


river.  Angrily  he  sprang  into  the  water  with  drawn 
sword,  and  striding  powerfully  through  the  waves, 
he  approached  the  unlucky  Asteropaeus,  who  was 
trying  in  vain  to  secure  Achilles’  lance.  Before  he 
could  do  so  the  hero  felled  him,  and  he  sank  down 
unconscious. 

“Ah,”  he  cried  joyously,  “thou  couldst  scarcely 
contend  with  a  man  of  Jupiter’s  divine  race,  although 
thy  ancestor  was  a  river  god.” 

Achilles  drew  his  spear  out  of  the  earth  and  left 
the  dying  man  gasping  at  the  water’s  edge.  He 
threw  himself  next  upon  a  troop  of  Paeonians  and 
drove  them  into  the  stream.  Those  who  would 
not  go  of  their  own  accord  he  thrust  down  into  a 
watery  grave.  Then  from  the  depths  of  the  stream 
he  heard  the  voice  of  the  river  god:  “O  Achilles, 
thou  art  superhuman  in  thy  fury  and  the  gods  are 
always  with  thee.  But  I  warn  thee,  that  if  Jupiter 
hath  given  the  Trojans  into  thy  hand  this  day, 
murder  where  thou  wilt,  but  do  not  pollute  my 
waters,  for  my  stream  is  already  glutted  with  the 
dead,  and  even  now  I  can  scarce  flow  down  into  the 
holy  sea.  Therefore  forbear!” 

Achilles  heard  the  warning  unmoved  and  replied: 
“It  shall  be  as  thou  sayest,  divine  Scamander,  but 
I  shall  never  stop  destroying  the  Trojans  until  I 
have  fought  the  last  decisive  battle  with  Hector.” 

But  when  he  chanced  upon  a  fresh  troop  of  the 
enemy,  who  were  astray  near  the  river,  he  forgot 
the  river  god’s  decree,  and  when  they  all  jumped 
into  the  stream  to  gain  the  opposite  shore  he  plunged 
[  126] 


ACHILLES  IN  BATTLE 


in  after  them.  Then  the  invisible  god  arose  in  his 
might,  determined  to  destroy  him.  He  sent  wave 
after  wave  breaking  over  him  and  drew  him  deeper 
and  deeper  down.  Struggle  as  he  might  he  could 
make  no  headway  against  the  mighty  stream  on 
whose  waves  he  rose  and  fell,  almost  losing  his 
balance  and  being  carried  away.  The  bodies  of 
the  slain  bore  against  him  and  he  could  scarcely 
hold  them  back  with  his  shield.  He  struggled  to 
the  shore,  but  the  angry  god  stirred  up  a  foaming 
surf  which  threw  him  back  again. 

Almost  exhausted  he  struggled  forward  once  more 
and  grasped  a  young  elm  whose  branches  hung  over 
the  stream;  but  just  as  he  was  about  to  swing  him¬ 
self  up  by  it  the  roots  gave  way,  so  that  it  lay  across 
the  river  like  a  bridge.  Upon  this  the  hero  reached 
the  bank,  although  he  vainly  hoped  to  escape  the 
river  god  thus.  Furiously  Scamander  followed  him 
across  the  fallow  fields  with  breaking  waves.  He 
also  called  to  his  aid  the  other  streams  who  generally 
dash  their  waters  from  the  mountain  heights  to 
destroy  the  farmer’s  fields  only  in  springtime.  To 
the  Simois,  which  joins  him  just  before  he  flows 
into  the  sea,  he  cried:  “Come,  brother,  and  help  me 
stem  the  power  of  this  terrible  man,  else  he  will  batter 
down  the  walls  of  Priam’s  fortress  to-day;  for  none 
can  withstand  him.  Arise,  friend,  let  thy  floods 
loose;  roll  down  rocks  and  stones  with  thundering 
waves  upon  him,  that  we  may  tame  him.  For  I 
ween  that  neither  his  strength  nor  beauty  nor  his 
resplendent  weapons  shall  save  him.  They  shall  be 

[  127] 


ACHILLES 


buried  deep  in  mud,  and  him  will  I  cover  with  sand 
and  heap  a  monument  of  shells  and  pebbles  over  him 
so  high  that  none  shall  ever  find  his  bones.” 

The  hero  was  almost  overcome  and  in  his  despair 
cried  aloud:  “Father  Jupiter,  not  a  single  one  of 
the  gods  will  take  pity  on  me,  and  I  thought  ye  all 
loved  me!  But  none  has  deceived  me  more  than 
my  divine  mother,  who  promised  me  the  glorious 
death  of  a  hero  before  Troy.  And  now,  alas,  an 
ignoble  end  awaits  me,  and  I  shall  be  drowned  as 
ignominiously  as  any  swineherd  in  a  mud  puddle.” 

Then  from  afar  a  solemn  and  consoling  voice 
arose.  “Be  comforted,  Peleus’  son,  thou  shalt  not 
die  in  the  waters.  Keep  up  the  struggle  until  the 
Trojans  have  fled  the  field.  But  when  Hector  is 
vanquished  thou  shalt  return.” 

This  promise  filled  his  heart  with  courage,  for  it 
was  the  voice  of  Poseidon,  to  whom  all  streams  are 
subject.  And  now  the  waters  quickly  subsided  and 
were  drawn  into  the  broad  gulf  of  the  sea.  Then  a 
south  wind  arose  which  sucked  up  the  moisture 
from  the  ground  and  bore  it  away.  The  valiant 
hero  soon  stood  upon  firm  ground  again  and  hurried 
away  as  fast  as  he  could  to  plunge  into  the  fray. 
Fired  by  his  example,  his  people  followed  him  like  a 
consuming  flame  fanned  by  the  wind.  All  who  could 
do  so  fled  to  the  walls,  most  of  them  toward  the  gate. 
The  venerable  Priam  sat  upon  the  top  of  the  wall, 
looking  mournfully  down  upon  the  sad  plight  of  his 
people.  When  the  crush  at  the  gate  became  in¬ 
tolerable  he  descended  and  called  to  the  guards: 

[  128] 


ACHILLES  IN  BATTLE 


“Friends,  open  the  doors  and  let  the  men  in,  for 
they  can  no  longer  withstand  the  terrible  Pelide. 
When  all  are  inside,  shut  the  gate  and  put  up  the 
bars,  that  the  enemy  may  not  enter  also.” 

In  the  confusion  of  flight,  where  none  wished  to 
be  lost,  Achilles  and  his  band  would  doubtless  have 
pushed  in  with  them  had  not  Apollo  distracted 
his  attention  by  the  sight  of  Agenor.  This  bold 
youth  stood  concealed  behind  a  beech  tree  turning 
over  a  thousand  projects  in  his  anxious  mind. 
“What  shall  I  do?”  he  said  to  himself.  “I  am  too 
far  behind  to  follow  the  others  —  he  would  take  me 
in  the  back  like  a  coward.  If  I  try  to  creep  along 
the  wall  and  escape  by  way  of  the  thickets  of  Ida, 
the  bushes  may  hide  me;  then  I  could  steal  up  to  the 
gate  at  night  and  whisper  to  them  softly  to  let 
me  in.  But  what  if  he  should  discover  me  there? 
Then  I  should  be  lost  indeed;  for  who  is  as  strong 
as  he?  But  his  body  is  not  invulnerable  and  he  is  a 
mortal  like  the  others.  Therefore  I  will  try  my  skill 
with  him,  that  I  may  save  my  life  with  honor.” 

Meanwhile  Achilles  came  running  up  and  espied 
the  man  hidden  behind  the  tree.  Agenor  stepped 
boldly  forth  and  cried:  “Madman,  dost  thou  hope 
to  destroy  the  fortress  to-day?  Nevermore!  There 
are  still  plenty  of  brave  men  in  the  city,  and  all  are 
fighting  for  parents,  wives,  and  children.  On  the 
contrary,  thy  own  sad  fate  may  be  upon  thee  to-day, 
thou  ungovernable  monster.” 

With  these  words  his  flashing  sword  descended 
upon  Achilles,  and  not  without  effect.  He  struck  his 

[  129] 


ACHILLES 


shin,  and  only  the  impenetrable  greaves  fashioned  by 
Vulcan  prevented  the  leg  from  being  shattered. 
Like  a  wounded  boar  Achilles  pounced  upon  the 
youth,  who  fled  through  wheatfields  and  thickets 
along  the  river,  leading  his  grim  pursuer  far  away 
from  the  city;  for  he  did  not  give  up  the  chase  until 
the  youth  was  lost  to  sight.  And  this  never  would 
have  occurred  had  the  blow  on  his  leg  not  sapped 
his  strength.  But  Apollo  had  arranged  it  thus,  so 
that  for  this  time  the  Trojans  should  escape;  for 
when  he  returned  breathless  he  found  them  safe 
behind  their  walls. 


[  130] 


Chapter  XV 

Hector  and  Achilles  —  Hector’s  Heath 


THE  Achaians,  their  shields  slung  over  their 
shoulders,  were  awaiting  Achilles  close 
under  the  walls  of  Troy.  All  the  Trojans 
were  within  the  city  except  Hector,  who  had  remained 
outside,  resolved  to  meet  Achilles  once  more  in 
combat;  for  he  believed  that  he  owed  it  to  his 
fatherland  and  to  his  own  honor,  either  to  free 
his  people  from  this  dread  enemy  or  to  give  up  his 
own  life  for  them.  His  old  father  looked  gloomily 
down  from  the  wall  and  signalled  for  him  to  come 
inside,  but  in  vain. 

Achilles  returned  from  his  pursuit  of  Agenor,  his 
lance  on  his  shoulder.  At  the  sight  old  Priam  beat 
his  breast  in  consternation  and  he  trembled,  seeing 
his  son  without  and  alone.  “Dear  son,”  he  en¬ 
treated,  “do  not  face  that  cruel  man,  for  he  is  stronger 
than  thou.  Alas,  would  that  the  gods  hated  him 
as  I  do  and  he  would  soon  be  food  for  the  dogs !  How 
many  of  my  sons  he  has  already  murdered  or  sold 
to  distant  isles!  And  now,  my  Hector,  thou  on 
whom  the  Trojan  people  put  their  hopes,  wilt  thou 
also  go  to  meet  him?  Come,  take  pity  on  me! 

[  131 ) 


ACHILLES 


Already  hath  Jupiter  heaped  endless  misfortunes 
upon  mine  old  age,  and  should  he  rob  me  of  thee 
now,  I  already  foresee  the  enemy  breaking  into 
our  fortress,  carrying  off  our  women,  murdering  our 
children,  and  plundering  our  treasures.  Woe  is  me! 
for  I  shall  become  food  for  mine  own  dogs  in  the 
courtyard.  Alas,  that  would  be  the  most  lamen¬ 
table  of  all  destinies !” 

But  Hector  could  not  be  persuaded  and  remained 
steadfast  at  the  gate,  awaiting  Achilles.  “Woe  is 
me  if  I  should  hide  now  behind  walls  and  gates !” 
he  said.  “Then  Polydamas  could  chide  me  with 
reason  for  sacrificing  so  many  good  friends  to-day. 
I  would  not  follow  his  advice  and  retire  into  the  city, 
but  presumed  to  contend  with  Achilles  alone,  and 
alas,  I  have  not  saved  a  single  man  from  his  fury 
and,  I  openly  avow,  have  myself  avoided  him  in 
fear,  for  he  is  truly  terrible  in  his  might.  But  now 
I  must  challenge  fate  boldly,  that  the  women  of 
Troy  may  not  denounce  me  for  leading  the  people 
to  destruction  and  then  fleeing  like  a  coward.  But 
how  would  it  be  if  I  should  lay  helmet  and  shield 
on  the  ground  beside  my  lance  and  thus  go  to  meet 
the  hero  and  offer  him  a  peaceful  settlement?  Offer 
him  Helen  and  all  their  treasure,  together  with  half 
of  all  the  goods  which  the  houses  of  the  Trojan 
princes  contain?  But  no!  I  cannot  approach  him 
a  suppliant.  It  would  be  base  and  unworthy  and 
he  would  strike  me  down  unarmed  like  a  weak 
woman.  No!  I  will  fight  like  a  man.  Be  my  fate 
what  it  may,  I  will  conquer  or  die  with  honor.” 

[  132] 


HECTOR  AND  ACHILLES 


Achilles  came  up  looking  like  Mars  himself.  When 
Hector  saw  him  he  trembled,  and  fled  like  a  dove 
pursued  by  a  hawk.  Hector  turned  first  to  the  left, 
then  to  the  right,  striving  to  tire  out  his  pursuer; 
but  in  vain.  Now  they  ran  past  the  watch  tower, 
now  past  the  fig  tree,  and  now  by  the  hot  springs, 
where  were  the  stone  basins  of  the  washerwomen. 
His  pursuer  drove  him  clear  round  the  great  city, 
yea,  even  three  times  round  the  walls,  and  as  often 
as  Hector  tried  to  slip  through  an  open  portal, 
Achilles  would  drive  him  out  again  into  the  open 
fields,  keeping  near  the  walls  himself.  But  when 
they  passed  the  place  where  the  Achaians  were  rest¬ 
ing  on  their  spears  awaiting  the  outcome,  Achilles 
forbade  anyone  to  cast  a  spear  at  Hector  and  rob 
him  of  the  honor  of  the  victory. 

As  they  neared  the  hot  springs  for  the  fourth 
time,  a  man  ran  forward  as  though  to  offer  Hector 
aid.  It  was  Athena  in  the  form  of  Hector’s  brother 
Deiphobus,  who  called  to  him:  “Brother,  I  saw  thy 
danger  and  am  come  forth  to  help  thee.  Stop  and 
await  him  boldly.” 

“Beloved  Deiphobus,  how  didst  thou  dare  —  ” 

“My  soul  was  wrung  and  I  could  no  longer  look 
upon  the  grief  of  my  father  and  mother.” 

“So  be  it,  I  will  fight,”  said  Hector,  and  made 
ready  to  meet  the  foe.  “  I  will  no  longer  flee  before 
thee,  O  Pelide,”  he  cried  to  Achilles.  “My  heart 
bids  me  encounter  thee,  whether  I  conquer  or  fall. 
But  let  us  first  make  a  compact  and  swear  to  it 
before  the  all-seeing  gods.  Should  Jupiter  give  me 

[  133  ] 


ACHILLES 


the  victory,  I  will  not  misuse  thee.  Thy  armor  will 
I  take  and  leave  thy  body  to  the  Achaians,  that  they 
may  give  it  burial.  And  thou  shalt  do  the  same  to 
me. 

But  with  a  furious  look  Achilles  roared  his  answer. 
“No  compacts,  hated  Hector!  Does  the  lion  make 
a  compact  with  the  cattle,  or  the  wolf  with  the 
lambs?  One  of  us  must  lie  stretched  upon  the 
ground,  that  Mars  may  be  satiated  with  his  blood. 
I  hope  that  thou  mayest  not  escape  me,  and  thus 
atone  at  once  for  all  the  woe  thou  hast  inflicted  on 
my  people.” 

Thus  speaking,  he  sent  his  terrible  spear  flying 
through  the  air.  But  Hector,  quickly  sinking  on 
one  knee,  avoided  it  and  the  iron  missile  passed  over 
him.  Fresh  courage  filled  him,  and  springing  up 
joyfully  he  cried:  “Wide  of  the  mark,  godlike 
Achilles !  Thou  art  a  good  talker  and  crafty,  hoping 
I  should  lose  strength  and  courage.  Now  protect 
thyself,  for  my  spear  shall  not  strike  thee  lightly!” 

He  hurled  his  lance  with  tremendous  force  and 
did  not  miss  the  mark,  for  the  point  struck  the  boss  of 
the  shield  with  a  loud  crash  and  would  have  pierced 
both  shield  and  breast  had  the  shield  not  been  forged 
by  Vulcan  himself.  But  the  lance  rebounded  like 
a  ball  thrown  against  a  wall  and  Hector  stood  con¬ 
founded,  for  he  had  but  one  spear.  He  quickly 
looked  about  for  Deiphobus  and  called  loudly  for 
another  spear,  but  there  was  no  answer  and  his 
brother  was  nowhere  to  be  seen.  Then  he  was 
filled  with  foreboding.  “Woe  is  me!”  he  cried. 

1 134  j 


HECTOR  AND  ACHILLES 


“Some  cunning  god  in  De’iphobus’  shape  hath  de¬ 
ceived  me,  and  now,  when  I  hoped  he  would  save 
me,  he  has  disappeared.”  In  desperation  he  seized 
his  sword,  rushing  forward  like  a  soaring  eagle 
swooping  down  upon  its  prey.  But  Achilles  had 
already  picked  up  Hector’s  spear,  and,  as  they 
charged  each^other,  the  long  spear  reached  its  goal 
sooner  than  the  short  sword.  Taken  in  the  neck 
above  his  breastplate,  the  hope  of  Troy  sank  into 
the  dust,  while  the  cruel  victor  and  all  the  Achaians 
loudly  rejoiced. 

“Ha!”  cried  Achilles  as  he  drew  forth  his  spear, 
“only  yesterday  thou  wert  so  proudly  triumphant, 
as  thou  didst  invade  our  ships  in  Patroclus’  stolen 
harness,  and  to-day  thou  liest  powerless  before  the 
walls  of  thy  proud  fortress.  Surely  thou  didst  little 
dream  that  the  slain  hero  had  left  a  powerful  avenger. 
We  shall  pay  him  all  the  honors  of  a  hero,  while  thou 
shalt  make  a  shameful  end  among  the  dogs  and 
birds  of  prey.” 

Breathing  painfully,  Hector  tried  to  speak.  “I 
conjure  thee  by  thy  life  and  by  thy  parents,  let  me 
not  be  torn  by  Damsean  dogs,  but  accept  the  bronze 
and  valuable  gold  which  my  father  and  mother  shall 
offer  thee.  Send  my  body  to  Ilios,  that  the  men 
and  women  of  Troy  may  pay  me  the  last  honors  of 
the  funeral  pyre.”  But  Achilles  shouted:  “Silence 
and  die,  contemptible  one!” 

Dying,  Hector  answered:  “Indeed  I  knew  I 
should  not  move  thee,  for  thou  hast  an  iron  heart. 
But  think  of  me  when  the  gods  avenge  me  and  thou 

[135] 


ACHILLES 


sinkest  into  the  dust  felled  by  the  shots  of  Phoebus 
Apollo.”  And  Death,  the  brother  of  Sleep,  bore 
the  hero’s  soul  down  to  Hades.  Many  warriors 
from  the  Greek  army  came  up  and  looked  with 
admiration  upon  the  splendid  form  of  the  hero. 
And  to  one  another  they  said:  “It  is  wonderful  how 
much  gentler  he  is  to  look  on  now  than  there  at  our 
ships  when  he  was  leading  the  assault.” 

Achilles  arose  among  the  people  and  spoke. 
“Friends,  now  that  the  gods  have  permitted  me  to 
subdue  the  man  who  has  done  us  greater  injury 
than  any  other,  let  us  discover  whether  the  Trojans 
will  dare  withstand  us,  without  the  support  of  their 
great  hero.  But  what  am  I  saying?  My  friend  lies 
still  unburied.  Therefore  let  us  chant  the  hymn  of 
victory  and  take  Hector  with  us  as  an  expiatory 
offering  for  my  friend.” 

First  the  procession  passed  by  the  Scsean  gate, 
that  the  Trojans  standing  there  upon  the  walls 
might  see  it.  There  sat  old  Priam  and  his  spouse 
Hecuba,  without  any  warning  of  the  outcome  of 
the  combat.  What  a  horrible  sight  for  the  venerable 
father  and  loving  mother!  Their  bravest  son,  the 
pride  and  hope  of  Troy,  dragged  at  the  wheels  of 
the  victor’s  chariot!  All  Troy  set  up  a  despairing 
lament,  as  though  the  city  were  already  in  ruins 
and  a  prey  to  devouring  flames.  His  mother, 
almost  beside  herself  with  grief,  wrung  her  hands, 
and  shrieking,  pulled  the  veil  from  her  head  and  tore 
her  gray  hair.  And  his  father  was  scarcely  to  be 
restrained  from  going  down  to  cut  his  son  loose  or 

[  136] 


HECTOR  AND  ACHILLES 


die  across  his  mutilated  body.  He  called  on  those 
by  name  who  stood  about  it;  begged,  implored, 
wept,  and  threw  himself  on  the  ground,  strewing 
dust  on  his  gray  head.  And  all  those  who  saw  it 
wept  with  him. 

Hector’s  faithful  wife,  Andromache,  was  the  last 
to  learn  the  sad  tidings,  for  she  had  been  busy  in 
her  home  attending  to  household  duties  among  her 
women.  And  now,  as  twilight  fell,  she  sent  one  of 
her  maids  to  heat  water  in  a  tripod  for  the  hero’s 
bath  when  he  should  return.  From  a  distance  arose 
a  sound  of  loud  lamentation  and  wailing  of  women. 
The  wife  trembled  and  sad  foreboding  filled  her 
heart.  “Follow  me,”  she  cried  to  two  of  the  maids. 
“My  knees  are  trembling,  for  I  fear  the  noble  Achilles 
has  cut  off  the  valiant  Hector  from  the  city,  for  he 
is  always  before  all  others  and  fears  no  one.” 

She  rushed  out,  the  servants  following  after  her. 
There  was  nobody  to  be  seen  in  the  street;  the  cries 
came  from  the  walls.  The  unhappy  woman  hastened 
thither.  One  look  revealed  the  tragedy,  and  she 
sank  down  in  a  swoon.  She  lay  for  long  as  one 
dead,  and  at  length,  when  consciousness  returned, 
she  began  in  a  low,  broken  voice:  “Hector!  Alas, 
the  unhappy  people!  Oh,  that  I  had  never  been 
born!  Now  must  thou  go  down  to  Hades  and  I 
remain  here  a  widow,  miserable  and  deserted. 
And  thy  young  son  —  trouble  and  sorrow  menace 
his  future  now  that  thou  art  gone  —  for  others  will 
seek  to  take  his  patrimony  —  and  his  childhood 
shall  pass  without  a  friend.  For  an  orphaned  child 

[  137] 


ACHILLES 


has  no  playmates;  and  when  the  other  boys  take 
their  share  of  their  fathers’  feast,  none  calls  the 
orphan  boy  to  divide  with  him.  The  child  casts 
down  his  eyes  ashamed  and  weeps  silently.  Then, 
hungry,  he  goes  about  among  his  father’s  friends, 
pulls  one  by  the  coat,  another  by  the  cloak;  and  if 
one  of  them  is  kindly  inclined,  he  will  perhaps  hold 
the  goblet  to  his  lips.  But,  alas,  he  does  not  give 
him  his  fill.  The  other  boys,  insolent  and  greedy, 
do  not  suffer  him  at  their  feasts,  but  push  him  away, 
crying:  ‘Thy  father  doth  not  sit  at  our  feasts.’ 
Then  the  child  goes  away  and  cries  in  his  mother’s 
arms.  O  ye  gods,  my  Astyanax!  How  gayly  his 
father  used  to  rock  him  on  his  knees!  And  now, 
robbed  of  a  tender  father,  he  shall  suffer  much  — 
our  Astyanax,  as  the  Trojans  call  him.” 

Thus  mourned  Andromache,  and  round  about  her 
wept  and  lamented  the  women  of  Troy. 


[138] 


Chapter  XVI 

Priam  and  Achilles — Hectors  Burial  in  Troy 


IT  was  after  sundown  when  the  assembled 
Achaians  dispersed.  Each  returned  to  his 
own  ship  or  tent*  to  partake  of  the  evening 
meal  and  then  lay  down  to  rest,  well  content.  Only 
Achilles  could  not  sleep  for  thinking  of  his  lost 
friend.  In  vain  he  tossed  to  and  fro  on  his  bed; 
sweet  slumber  came  not  nigh  him.  Thus  he  mourned 
half  the  night,  then  suddenly  arose,  ran  out  into  the 
darkness,  and  wandered  up  and  down  the  shore, 
his  heart  full  of  sorrow.  At  last  he  went  to  Patroclus’ 
grave,  then  hastened  back  to  yoke  his  horses  to  the 
chariot,  to  which  he  bound  Hector’s  corpse  once 
more  and  dragged  him  thrice  round  the  grave  mound. 
After  this  he  drove  the  horses  back  to  the  enclosure 
and  threw  himself  again  upon  his  couch. 

Meanwhile  the  palace  of  old  Priam  had  become  a 
house  of  mourning.  The  afflicted  father  had  taken 
no  food  nor  drink  since  the  death  of  his  son,  and 
the  wailing  of  the  wife  and  mother  had  so  touched 
the  people  that  they  gathered  about  the  house  in 
crowds.  Even  the  gods  looked  down  pitifully  on 
the  unhappy  family  and  Apollo  appeared  in  dreams 
to  Priam  to  strengthen  his  heart  and  encourage  him 

1 139] 


ACHILLES 


to  enter  the  Greek  camp  and  plead  for  the  body  of 
his  son.  Jupiter  commanded  Hermes  to  accompany 
the  old  man,  so  that  no  enemy  should  hinder  him  or 
do  him  an  injury  by  the  way.  Overjoyed  at  the 
divine  vision,  Priam  forgot  his  complaints  and  went 
at  once  to  the  chamber  where  stood  the  chests  in 
which  he  kept  his  treasures.  He  said  to  Hecuba, 
his  mourning  spouse:  “I  go  to  conciliate  our  terrible 
enemy  with  presents,  and  the  god  who  has  given  me 
courage  will  protect  me.” 

Then  the  queen  burst  out  weeping,  saying  re¬ 
proachfully:  “Unhappy  man!  Hast  thou  lost  thy 
senses?  How  canst  thou  go  alone  to  the  ships  and 
meet  the  man  who  has  slain  so  many  of  thy  valiant 
sons!  Truly  thy  heart  is  made  of  iron!  Ah!  if  he 
set  eyes  upon  thee  and  seize  thee,  that  false  and 
terrible  man  will  have  neither  mercy  nor  respect 
nor  reverence  for  thine  age.  Oh,  do  not  go!  Let 
us  mourn  at  a  distance  our  lost  son,  whom  the  fates 
at  his  birth  decreed  should  be  vanquished  far  from 
his  people.  Remain  with  us,  dear  one,  that  thou 
mayest  preserve  thine  own  life.,> 

But  the  old  man  answered  confidently:  “I  should 
not  go  if  it  were  only  a  priest  or  seer  who  sent  me, 
but  I  saw  a  god  in  my  dream.  He  will  not  deceive 
me  and  my  own  heart  impels  me  to  go.  Dost  thou 
say  the  monster  would  kill  me?  Oh  let  him  do  so, 
if  only  he  will  strike  me  down  upon  the  breast  of 
my  dear  son!” 

He  opened  the  chest  and  took  out  the  rich  gar¬ 
ments  which  he  intended  to  take  with  him  for  a 
[140] 


PRIAM  AND  ACHILLES 


ransom  —  twelve  splendid  festal  robes,  twelve  warm 
covers,  and  as  many  tunics  and  magnificent  cloaks. 
Then  from  another  chest  he  took  ten  talents  of  gold, 
four  polished  basins,  and  two  tripods.  Even  the 
exquisite  goblet  presented  by  the  Thracians  when 
he  visited  them  as  ambassador  from  his  father  he 
did  not  withhold.  For  he  did  not  begrudge  giving 
even  his  greatest  treasure  to  soften  the  hard  heart 
of  Achilles  and  ransom  his  beloved  son. 

When  he  had  closed  the  box  and  turned  around, 
he  found  himself  surrounded  by  a  crowd  of  idle 
people,  who  had  come  up  to  stare  at  the  treasures 
which  were  to  be  offered  for  Hector’s  ransom. 
Angrily  he  cried  out:  “Out  with  you!  Away,  ye 
idlers!  Have  ye  not  trouble  enough  at  home,  that 
ye  come  to  look  upon  my  sorrow?  Only  think  what 
ye  have  lost  in  Hector!  Without  his  support  the 
Achaians  will  have  an  easier  victory.  Then  it  will 
be  your  turn  to  lament,  but  I  shall  doubtless  then 
be  dead!” 

He  drove  them  out  of  the  courtyard,  then  called 
for  his  sons,  reproving  them.  “Where  are  ye? 
Not  one  is  at  hand  when  I  need  ye!  My  best  sons 
are  dead,  only  the  good-for-nothings  remain.  Pack 
these  gifts  quickly  in  the  hampers,  and  when  it 
grows  dark,  harness  the  horses  and  summon  my  old, 
experienced  Idaeus.” 

Abashed,  the  sons  obeyed  all  these  commands 
and  Hecuba  began  to  prepare  a  strengthening 
draught  for  the  travellers.  Carrying  a  golden 
goblet  in  her  right  hand,  she  came  out  to  the  chariot, 

[141  ] 


ACHILLES 


and  placing  herself  in  front  of  the  steeds,  she  said 
to  her  husband:  “Here,  beloved,  take  this  and  pour 
out  a  libation  to  Jupiter  and  petition  him  for  a  safe 
return,  as  thou  goest  against  my  wishes.  For  I 
should  never  let  thee  go  if  I  could  prevent  it.  And 
even  now  I  would  counsel  thee  to  consult  the  god 
and  learn  whether  it  is  his  will  to  protect  thee. 
Should  this  prayer  remain  unanswered  then  I  would 
say,  Remain.  For  woe  to  him  who  goes  into  danger 
without  divine  support!” 

The  worthy  man  answered  her:  “I  will  obey  thy 
behest.  It  is  always  well  to  lift  up  our  hands  to 
Jupiter.”  He  spake  and  called  upon  the  stewardess 
for  water,  which  she  brought  in  a  silver  dish,  sprink¬ 
ling  him  with  her  right  hand,  while  with  the  left  she 
held  a  basin  beneath.  After  this  he  received  the 
wine  cup  from  his  spouse,  poured  out  the  first  drops 
in  honor  of  Jupiter,  and  prayed  aloud  with  eyes  raised 
to  the  sky:  “Father  Jupiter,  almighty  ruler,  let  me 
approach  Achilles  as  a  friend  and  find  favor  before 
him.  Grant  me  a  sign  that  thou  wilt  protect  me, 
so  that  I  may  set  out  confident  and  comforted.” 
His  wish  was  fulfilled,  for  soon  afterward  one  of  the 
eagles  which  nest  high  up  in  the  clefts  of  Mount 
Ida  flew  past  on  his  right  hand.  All  who  saw  this 
rejoiced  and  the  king  and  his  companion  mounted 
the  chariot,  full  of  confidence.  His  sons  accom¬ 
panied  him  to  the  city  gates  and,  weeping,  wished 
him  luck. 

Now  the  swift  messenger  of  the  gods  descended 
from  Olympus  to  the  shores  of  the  Hellespont  and 

[  142] 


PRIAM  AND  ACHILLES 


wandered  along  the  road  which  Priam  was  to  take. 
He  had  assumed  the  form  of  a  Greek  youth  of  noble 
race,  whose  appearance  inspired  confidence.  Priam 
had  arrived  at  the  grave  of  Ilus,  where  the  Scamander 
flows  gently  along,  and  there  he  had  stopped  to 
water  his  horses.  Old  Idseus  saw  the  godlike  youth 
coming  along  the  river  bank  in  the  twilight  and  said 
fearfully  to  the  king:  “Look!  son  of  Dardanus,  there 
cometh  a  strange  man.  He  will  surely  kill  us  both 
and  make  off  with  our  goods.  What  shall  we  do? 
Shall  we  fly  to  the  city  or  shall  we  get  down  and 
embrace  his  knees,  begging  for  mercy ?”  Priam 
looked  up  and  saw  with  dismay  that  the  man  was 
already  close  to  the  chariot.  Sudden  fear  paralyzed 
his  limbs,  but  when  he  saw  the  youth’s  face  close  by 
and  heard  his  friendly  voice  he  was  reassured. 

“Greeting  to  thee,  old  man.”  Thus  the  youth 
addressed  him.  “Whither  goest  thou  so  late  when 
all  other  mortals  are  asleep?  Dost  thou  not  fear 
the  Achaians,  who  are  not  far  away?  And  neither 
thou,  nor  the  old  man  thy  companion,  are  fit  to 
defend  yourselves.  But  I  will  not  harm  thee,  for 
thou  art  so  like  my  dear  father,  noble  king,  that  I 
am  drawn  to  thee.” 

“Fortune  favors  me,”  cried  the  old  man.  “Now 
I  see  that  Jupiter  is  with  me,  as  he  hath  sent  me 
such  a  noble  guide  through  the  dark  night,  of  such 
remarkable  stature  and  strength  and  of  such  wisdom. 
Truly  thou  hast  fortunate  parents.” 

“Tell  me,  old  man,”  continued  the  stranger, 
“where  art  thou  taking  these  goods?  Art  trying 

[  143 1 


ACHILLES 


to  carry  thy  greatest  treasures  to  a  place  of  safety 
before  the  destruction  of  Troy,  or  art  thou  flying 
secretly  from  the  city  for  fear  of  the  victorious  enemy? 
For  indeed  thou  hast  lost  thy  chief  treasure.  As 
long  as  noble  Hector  lived,  ye  could  battle  on  equal 
terms  with  the  Achaians.”  This  warmed  the  old 
father’s  heart.  “Who  art  thou,”  he  asked,  “who 
speakest  so  kindly  of  my  poor  son?” 

“Who  does  not  so?”  answered  the  stranger. 
“How  often  I  have  seen  him  in  the  stress  of  battle 
driving  the  Argives  in  droves  before  him.  We  often 
stood  and  admired  him  from  a  distance  when  Achilles 
forbade  us  to  join  in  the  battle;  for  I  am  one  of  his 
companions  and  came  hither  in  the  same  ship  with 
him.  My  father  is  a  noble  Myrmidon  called  Polyctor. 
He  has  property  and  money,  but  is  an  old  man  like 
thyself.  I  am  the  youngest  of  seven  brothers. 
When  Achilles  went  to  war  we  cast  lots  to  see  which 
should  go  with  him,  and  the  lot  fell  to  me.  I  have 
been  wandering  about,  thinking  of  the  fate  of  Troy, 
for  to-morrow  the  Achaians  intend  to  assault  the 
city.  They  are  weary  of  the  long  truce  and  are 
anxious  to  end  the  war.” 

“If  thou  art  one  of  Achilles’  companions,”  said 
Priam,  “thou  canst  doubtless  tell  me  whether  my 
son’s  body  is  still  lying  at  the  ships  or  whether  the 
cruel  man  has  already  thrown  it  to  the  dogs.” 

The  stranger  replied:  “Not  yet  have  dogs  or 
birds  of  prey  touched  it,  although  it  has  lain  there 
for  twelve  days  and  Achilles  drags  it  round  the 
grave  of  his  friend  every  morning.  Neither  has 

[144] 


PRIAM  AND  ACHILLES 


decomposition  touched  it,  and  the  beautiful  limbs 
are  still  preserved  in  remarkable  freshness.  Seeing 
him,  one  would  suppose  he  had  but  just  died.  Thus 
the  gods  watch  over  him  even  in  death,  for  they 
always  loved  him.,, 

How  happy  the  old  man  was  at  this  news.  “Oh 
child,”  he  cried,  “how  good  it  is  for  a  man  to  pay 
honor  to  the  gods  with  due  offerings.  My  son  never 
forgot  that.  He  never  failed  to  make  sacrifice  before 
he  partook  of  food  himself,  and  now  in  death  he  is 
receiving  his  reward.  Oh  what  a  happy  father  I 
am!  Here,  friend,  take  this  handsome  cup  in 
remembrance  of  Priam.  It  was  intended  for  Achilles, 
for  I  am  going  to  him  to  ransom  my  Hector.  But  I 
have  enough  other  gifts  for  him.  Take  it  and  guide 
me  to  his  tent.  Thou  knowest  the  way.” 

“Wilt  thou  tempt  me,  old  man?”  answered  the 
stranger.  “I  will  not  yield  to  it.  I  cannot  take  a 
gift  from  thee  without  Achilles’  knowledge  and  rob 
him  of  it.  No,  I  am  too  much  in  awe  of  him.  Some 
harm  might  befall  me.  But  I  will  accompany  thee, 
notwithstanding,  and  no  plunderer  shall  come  nigh 
thee  unpunished.” 

With  these  words  he  swung  himself  on  to  the 
chariot  and  placed  himself  between  the  two  old 
men,  taking  the  whip  and  reins  from  the  herald. 
The  horses  trotted  along  boldly  and  confidently 
through  the  fields  and  soon  brought  the  travellers 
to  the  walls  of  the  camp.  From  a  distance  they 
saw  the  servants  busied  with  the  remains  of  the 
evening  meal,  but  the  god  waved  his  staff  and  they 

ins! 


ACHILLES 


all  sank  into  a  deep  slumber.  Then  he  unbarred 
the  gates,  drove  inside  and  in  the  direction  of  the 
enclosure  in  which  the  tents  and  ships  of  the  Myr¬ 
midons  stood.  There  he  took  leave  of  Priam  and 
disappeared;  but  before  he  went  he  pointed  out 
Achilles’  tent  and  encouraged  the  trembling  old 
man.  “Go  boldly  in,”  said  he,  “and  embrace  his 
knees.  The  sight  of  thee  will  certainly  move  him, 
for  his  soul  is  filled  with  melancholy.  Adjure  him 
by  his  father  and  by  his  divine  mother,  whom  he 
loves  tenderly.  Thou  wilt  certainly  touch  his  heart 
if  thou  speak  of  her.” 

Much  comforted  the  king  got  down,  leaving  the 
chariots  and  the  presents  outside  in  the  care  of  his 
old  companion.  His  heart  beat  faster  as  he  crossed 
the  threshold  of  the  tent,  but  after  a  moment  of 
indecision  he  entered.  He  found  Achilles  still  sitting 
at  the  table  where  he  had  supped.  Beside  him 
stood  his  two  favorite  companions,  the  excellent 
driver  Automedon  and  the  skilful  spearsman  Alkimos. 
The  great  hero  was  leaning  on  his  elbows,  sunk  deep  in 
moody  thought,  and  was  not  aware  of  the  entrance  of 
the  old  man  until  he  had  fallen  at  his  feet,  clasped  his 
knees,  and  kissed  his  hands  —  those  horrible  hands 
which  had  murdered  so  many  of  his  sons.  Achilles 
was  amazed,  for  he  had  been  taken  completely  by  sur¬ 
prise.  For  a  moment  they  gazed  into  each  other’s 
faces,  Achilles  puzzled  and  agitated,  Priam  imploring 
and  anxious.  At  length  a  flood  of  tears  relieved  the 
oppressed  heart  of  the  venerable  man  and  in  a  trem¬ 
bling  voice  he  uttered  these  beseeching  words: 
[146] 


< 


PRIAM  AND  ACHILLES 


“Remember  thy  father,  godlike  Achilles,  who 
languishes  at  home,  old  and  helpless  like  myself. 
Ah,  perhaps  his  neighbors  are  even  now  oppressing 
him  and  there  is  none  to  protect  him.  But  he  knows 
that  he  has  a  good  and  faithful  son,  even  though  far 
away,  who  will  make  an  end  of  all  his  troubles  when 
he  returns.  The  old  man  is  full  of  hope  and  every 
day  he  cherishes  sweet  thoughts  of  thee.  But  woe 
is  me!  I  was  the  happiest  of  fathers.  I  had  raised 
fifty  sons,  nineteen  of  them  born  of  one  mother. 
They  were  my  pride  and  joy.  Then  ye  came  to 
invest  my  city  and  the  unhappy  war  took  one  of 
them  after  the  other  until  but  few  were  left.  But 
among  them  all,  the  best  one  still  remained  —  he 
who  had  protected  me  and  all  of  us  thus  far;  but 
now  he  also  is  no  more.  Alas,  I  can  no  longer  beg 
for  his  life,  but  we  long  to  see  the  dead  once  more 
and  pay  him  the  honors  due  my  son.  At  home 
sisters,  wife,  and  mother  mourn  for  him,  and  see, 
here  lies  his  unhappy  father  at  thy  feet.  Give  him 
back  to  me.  I  have  brought  thee  rich  gifts.  Fear 
the  gods!  Bethink  thee  and  imagine  thy  old  father 
kneeling  thus  to  a  younger  man.  But  I  suffer  as  no 
mortal  ere  has  done  before  me  and  press  my  lips  to 
the  hand  which  slew  my  children.” 

The  heart  of  the  invincible  hero  could  not  with¬ 
stand  these  words  and  tears.  He  was  deeply  moved. 
The  picture  of  his  own  gray-haired  father  rose  before 
him  and  a  sad  longing  for  his  embrace  filled  his  heart. 
He  wept  aloud  and  bent  gently  down  to  raise  the 
old  man  up,  but  Priam  still  clasped  his  knees  tightly. 

[  147] 


ACHILLES 


Thus  they  both  sobbed,  each  conscious  of  his  own 
fate  through  the  sorrow  of  the  other.  At  last,  when 
they  had  wept  for  some  time,  Achilles  spoke.  “In 
truth,  unhappy  man,  thou  hast  been  much  afflicted. 
And  yet  thou  hast  dared  to  come  alone  and  by  night 
to  the  Achaian  ships  and  to  the  man  who  has  slain 
thy  bravest  sons.  Thy  heart  is  certainly  strong  and 
courageous.  But  come,  forget  thy  sorrow  and  let 
me  see  no  more  of  thy  tears.  Arise  and  sit  here 
and  let  us  calm  ourselves.  The  gods  have  decreed 
that  miserable  mankind  should  live  in  sorrow,  while 
they  know  naught  of  trouble.  For  many  they  have 
mixed  the  sad  lots  with  the  happy  ones,  but  some 
receive  only  ill  fortune,  so  that  his  whole  life  is  a 
miserable  failure  and  he  is  favored  neither  by  gods 
nor  men.  Alas !  neither  is  my  father  fortunate. 
Although  the  gods  have  bestowed  worldly  goods  and 
power  upon  him,  and  although  a  goddess  became 
his  spouse,  it  is  ordained  that  there  shall  be  no  heir 
to  his  kingdom;  for  alas!  he  shall  never  look  upon 
me  again,  though  his  heart  longs  for  me.  I  am  not 
fated  to  return  home  a  peaceful  ruler,  to  enjoy  a 
happy  old  age.  Thus  has  fate  robbed  thee,  also, 
of  thy  good  son.  But  he  is  dead;  therefore  lament 
no  more.  Thou  canst  not  bring  him  back  to  life. 
Who  can  do  aught  against  the  all-powerful  gods?” 

“Bid  me  not  sit,”  sobbed  the  old  man.  “I 
will  lie  here  until  thou  hast  given  me  back  my 
only  beloved  son,  that  my  tears  may  fall  upon 
him.  But  take  the  gifts  and  enjoy  them  in  peace 
when  thou  returnest  to  thy  native  land,  because 

(  h8] 


PRIAM  AND  ACHILLES 


thou  sendest  me  away  filled  with  gratitude  and 
love.” 

At  these  words  Achilles  frowned  and  said:  “Do 
not  agitate  me  further,  old  man!  Arise,  for  I  have 
already  determined  to  give  thee  back  thy  son. 
Do  not  insult  me  with  fears  and  mistrust !” 

Silently  the  old  man  obeyed  this  earnest  behest 
and  rising  seated  himself.  Meanwhile  the  hero, 
mighty  as  a  lion,  arose  and  went  out,  followed  by 
his  two  friends.  Before  the  tent  they  unyoked  the 
horses  and  conducted  the  herald  inside.  They  then 
took  the  valuable  gifts  out  of  the  hamper,  except 
two  soft  garments,  in  which  they  were  to  wrap  the 
body  of  Hector.  Then,  unseen  by  the  father, 
Achilles  caused  two  female  slaves  to  wash  the  body 
and  to  cleanse,  arrange,  and  anoint  the  hair.  Next 
the  servants  wrapped  the  body  in  the  fine  robes  and 
Achilles  himself  lifted  it  onto  the  chariot  and  laid 
it  on  a  bier  prepared  for  it.  Then  he  stood  still  a 
moment  and  said:  “Do  not  be  angry  with  me, 
Patroclus,  if  thou  shouldst  learn,  perchance,  in 
Hades’  dwelling,  that  I  have  returned  Hector’s 
body  to  his  unhappy  father.  Look,  he  brings  me 
a  not  unworthy  ransom  and  a  share  of  it  shall  be 
consecrated  to  thee.” 

He  reentered  the  tent  and  seated  himself  opposite 
his  two  guests.  “Now  thou  canst  rest  content,  old 
man,”  he  said.  “Thy  son  is  ransomed  and  lies  on 
thy  chariot  wrapped  in  fine  garments.  Now  let  us 
partake  of  food  and  comfort  our  hearts.  Even 
Niobe  did  not  forget  to  eat,  although  her  heart  was 

L 149 1 


ACHILLES 


torn  by  bitter  sorrow  when  Artemis  had  slain  her 
six  blooming  daughters  in  one  day  and  Apollo  her 
six  splendid  sons.  So  let  us  feast.  Thou  canst 
mourn  for  thy  son  at  home,  for  he  is  doubtless  worthy 
of  thy  tears.” 

With  these  words  Achilles  got  up  quickly,  fetched 
a  sheep  and  killed  it.  His  companions  cut  up  the 
meat  and  roasted  it  carefully  on  spits.  Then  they 
sat  down  at  table,  Automedon  passed  bread  in  a 
basket,  but  Achilles  himself  served  the  meat,  and 
they  all  ate  and  drank  their  fill.  The  old  man 
admired  and  wondered  at  the  splendid  proportions 
of  the  great  hero,  his  godlike  mien,  and  his  bold  and 
fiery  glance.  But  Achilles  too  was  amazed  at  heart 
when  he  noted  the  awe-inspiring,  majestic  demeanor 
and  the  dignified  countenance  of  the  king  and  heard 
his  words  of  wisdom.  When  they  had  finished 
eating,  Priam  said:  “Now,  godlike  host,  take  me 
to  a  place,  I  beg  thee,  where  we  may  refresh  our¬ 
selves  with  slumber;  for  I  have  not  closed  my  eyes 
since  my  son  sank  down  among  the  dead,  and  this 
is  the  first  food  and  drink  that  have  passed  my  lips.” 

Achilles  commanded  his  comrades  to  prepare  a 
couch  for  Priam  and  his  companion  in  the  porch. 
The  maids  brought  soft  cushions  and  warm  blankets, 
arranged  them  all,  and  lighted  the  strangers  out  with 
their  torches.  Achilles  accompanied  the  king  to 
the  door  and  pressed  his  hand  at  parting.  A  few 
hours’  sleep  sufficed  for  the  old  man.  Then  he  arose 
to  awaken  Achilles,  for  he  was  anxious  to  start  before 
daybreak. 

[  IS°] 


PRIAM  AND  ACHILLES 


“Restless  old  man,”  said  Achilles  kindly,  “depart 
then.  But  first  tell  me  something.  How  soon  dost 
thou  intend  to  bury  thy  son?  For  until  then  I 
will  keep  the  peace  and  restrain  my  people  from 
battle.” 

“O  Achilles,”  answered  the  old  man,  much  moved, 
“if  thou  wilt  grant  us  this  favor,  give  us  nine  days 
to  mourn  the  dead  and  prepare  for  his  burial.  On 
the  tenth  day  we  will  burn  him,  on  the  eleventh 
erect  the  grave  mound,  and  on  the  twelfth,  if  it  must 
be,  we  will  resume  the  war.” 

“  Let  this,  too,  be  as  thou  desirest,”  replied  Achilles. 
“I  will  hold  the  army  in  check  for  as  long  as  thou 
hast  demanded.” 

He  clasped  the  old  man’s  wrist  to  assure  him  of 
good  faith,  then  accompanied  the  chariot  as  far  as 
the  gate  in  the  wall,  taking  care  that  none  of  the 
Achaians  should  harm  the  old  man.  Priam  drove 
once  more  through  the  well-known  fields,  past  the 
ford  of  the  flowing  Scamander,  where  yesterday  the 
friendly  youth  had  appeared.  And  now,  just  as  he 
was  watering  his  horses  there,  the  sun  rose.  Cassan¬ 
dra,  Priam’s  favorite  daughter,  who  had  been  stand¬ 
ing  on  the  watch  tower  since  dawn  awaiting  the 
return  of  her  father  with  beating  heart,  recognized 
the  travellers.  She  waited  until  she  could  discern 
all  plainly,  even  the  covered  body  of  her  brother  on 
the  chariot.  Then  she  ran  down  the  stairs  to  the 
palace,  calling  her  mother  and  sisters  loudly.  “Only 
look,  they  are  coming!  Hasten,  Trojans,  to  look 
upon  the  body  of  Hector,  if  ye  have  ever  rejoiced 

[151] 


ACHILLES 


over  him  alive  as  he  returned  from  the  battlefield. 
For  he  was  the  pride  of  the  city  and  of  all  the  people !” 

All  who  heard  her  voice  hurried  forth,  men  and 
women,  all  hearts  filled  with  boundless  sorrow. 
But  first  of  all  came  the  old  mother  and  Andromache. 
They  went  out  to  meet  the  chariot  and  stopped  it 
at  the  city  gate  with  loud  cries.  Mother  and  wife 
threw  themselves  on  the  body  and  wet  it  with  their 
tears,  tore  their  hair,  touched  his  head,  and  lifted 
up  the  cloths  to  look  upon  his  wounds.  The  crowd 
gathered,  weeping,  about  them.  But  the  king  cried: 
“Stand  back  and  let  the  horses  pass!  Ye  may  weep 
your  fill  when  I  have  carried  him  into  the  house.” 

They  all  stood  aside  and  the  king  entered  the  city, 
the  crowd  following  him  to  the  palace.  When  the 
corpse  was  lifted  from  the  chariot  the  universal 
lament  began  afresh.  Singers  were  brought  to  chant 
the  hymn  of  mourning  and  round  about  the  women 
sobbed,  especially  Andromache,  the  beautiful  prin¬ 
cess.  She  held  the  dead  man’s  head  in  her  hands 
and  moaned:  “Beloved,  thou  hast  lost  thy  life,  but 
the  widow,  alas,  is  left  behind  and  thy  young  son. 
How  shall  he  grow  to  manhood?  For  before  that 
Troy  will  fall,  as  thou  art  dead,  who  didst  defend 
the  walls,  the  women,  and  lisping  children.  Soon 
they  will  be  carried  away  to  bondage,  myself  among 
them.  And  thou,  my  dear  son,  wilt  go  hence  to 
endure  ignominy  with  thy  mother,  if  indeed  some 
cruel  Achaian  entering  the  conquered  city  does  not 
seize  thee  by  thy  tender  neck  and  hurl  thee  down 
from  the  tiles  into  the  streets  below.  Thy  valiant 

[152] 


PRIAM  AND  ACHILLES 


father  hath  slain  many  Achaians;  therefore  the 
people  mourn.  O  Hector,  what  unspeakable  sorrow 
thou  hast  caused  thy  parents,  but  I  am  unhappy 
above  all  others!  Dying,  thou  couldst  not  give  me 
thy  hand  nor  speak  words  of  wisdom  which  I  might 
have  cherished.”  Thus  she  spake,  weeping,  fathom¬ 
less  sorrow  in  her  heart. 

The  old  mother  also  could  not  be  torn  from  her 
beloved  son.  First  she  caressed  his  head,  then  the 
cold  hands,  as  though  she  hoped  to  call  him  back  to 
life.  Helen  too  lamented  over  the  dead.  “Hector 
dearest,”  she  cried,  “thou  didst  love  me  more  than 
any  of  my  husband’s  brothers.  What  insults  I  have 
suffered  since  the  hero  brought  me  to  Troy!  Thou 
alone  hadst  never  an  unkind  word  for  me.  Yea 
often,  when  thy  mother  or  one  of  my  sisters-in-law 
or  even  their  husbands  heaped  abuse  upon  me,  thou 
didst  mollify  the  angry  ones  and  make  peace.  How 
thy  friendly  encouragement  comforted  me!  Ah,  I 
shall  never  hear  that  dear  voice  again,  and  I  have  no 
longer  a  friend  in  this  house,  where  all  turn  from  me 
with  loathing.” 

Thus  she  lamented,  and  all  the  women  mourned 
with  her.  But  the  venerable  Priam  now  raised  his 
commanding  voice  and  spake.  “Ye  Trojans,  fetch 
wood  into  the  city  and  go  without  fear  that  the 
Danseans  are  lying  in  wait  for  you.  For  Peleus’  son 
promised  with  a  sacred  vow  not  to  raise  his  hand 
against  us  until  the  twelfth  day.” 

Quickly  they  yoked  oxen  and  horses  to  the  carts, 
and  on  the  tenth  day,  when  golden  Eos  arose,  the 

[153] 


ACHILLES 


people  all  assembled  for  the  funeral  obsequies  of 
Hector.  With  loud  lamentations  they  carried  out 
the  corpse  and  laid  it  on  the  high  scaffolding,  which 
they  set  on  fire.  When  the  pyre  had  burnt  itself 
out,  they  quenched  the  gleaming  embers  with  red 
wine.  His  brothers  and  the  comrades  of  the  hero 
gathered  together  the  white  bones  out  of  the  ashes 
and  deposited  them  in  a  golden  urn,  which  was 
placed  in  the  grave  and  gigantic  blocks  of  stone 
heaped  upon  it.  The  grave  mound  was  raised  above 
it  and  sentinels  were  stationed  about  the  place  so 
that  the  Greeks  should  not  surprise  and  attack  them. 
After  this  all  the  people  returned  into  the  city  and 
the  solemn  funeral  feast  was  held  in  Priam’s  palace. 
Thus  the  Trojans  paid  honor  to  the  body  of  great 
Hector. 


[154] 


Date  Due 


r 

H6  11 

93- 

TfEC^rs!) 

iOy-5’63 

QCT£7  ’« 

nrT  o  7  - 

UO  1  6  ( 

985 

/ 

<f) 

/ 

13757 


Becker ,  Carl  Friedrich. 

Author 


Title 

Achll  ,1  es . 


McClurg,  Chicago  1912. 


1A4Q25 


A3  5 


DATE  DUE 


BORROWER’S  NAME 


Nidi  j  1 


()  (  3  - DEC~3’59 


VA 


p 

ft 

N 

K 

I*  A 

_ 

~~T^~Z7 


BOSTON  COLLEGE 


3  9031  01239549 


13737 


BOSTON  COLLEGE  LIBRARY 

UNIVERSITY  HEIGHTS 
CHESTNUT  HILL,  MASS. 

Books  may  be  kept  for  two  weeks  and  may  be 
renewed  for  the  same  period,  unless  reserved. 

Two  cents  a  day  is  charged  for  each  book  kept 
overtime. 

If  you  cannot  find  what  you  want,  ask  the 
Librarian  who  will  be  glad  to  help  you. 

The  borrower  is  responsible  for  books  drawn 
on  his  card  and  for  all  fines  accruing  on  the  same. 


